Chiefs Urged to Focus on Defense in NFL Draft

With two first-round picks, Kansas City needs to address defensive needs to support Patrick Mahomes and the offense.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 1:36am

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting a Kansas City Chiefs defensive player making a tackle, with the player's form fractured into sharp, overlapping planes of red and gold.The Chiefs' defense needs an overhaul, and the upcoming draft provides the opportunity to rebuild with a new generation of playmakers.Kansas City Today

The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to prioritize defensive players in the upcoming NFL Draft, with analysts urging the team to use their two first-round picks to bolster their defense. The Chiefs' offense led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes is in good shape, but the defense has several holes that need to be filled, particularly in the secondary and pass rush.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have been a perennial Super Bowl contender in recent years, but their defense has held them back at times. Improving the defense through the draft could help the team return to the big game and give Mahomes a better chance at winning another championship.

The details

With the Chiefs holding two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, analysts believe the team should use those selections to address defensive needs. Cornerback is a priority, with players like Mansoor Delane being mocked to Kansas City. The pass rush also needs attention, as the team needs to find someone to complement star defensive tackle Chris Jones. While the offense appears to be in good shape, the offensive line and receiver positions have some question marks that may need to be addressed later in the draft.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' star quarterback and the key to their offensive success.

Chris Jones

The Chiefs' standout defensive tackle who needs more help on the defensive line.

Mansoor Delane

A highly-touted cornerback prospect who has been mocked to the Chiefs in recent weeks.

Reuben Bain Jr.

Another defensive player who has been linked to the Chiefs in pre-draft projections.

Steve Spagnuolo

The Chiefs' defensive coordinator who will be tasked with improving the unit through the draft and free agency.

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What they’re saying

“Leave Pittsburgh with enough defensive talent to start the new era of Super Bowl contention under Mahomes. Sounds easy enough!”

— Ben Solak, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Chiefs will look to address their defensive needs through the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 24-26. They will have two first-round picks to work with and are expected to use at least one of them on a defensive player, potentially a cornerback or pass rusher.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' defense has been a weakness in recent years, and the team needs to use the upcoming draft to significantly improve that side of the ball. With two first-round picks, they have a prime opportunity to find impact defensive players who can help them return to the Super Bowl and give Patrick Mahomes and the offense the support they need.