Position Priorities and Potential Picks
Veach recently discussed the Chiefs’ needs during his pre-draft press conference. He acknowledged that safety remains an important position for the team, especially after the departure of safety Bryan Cook. While he mentioned that the Chiefs could add another player to fill that void, he made it clear that the team has bigger positional needs—including defensive end, receiver, and defensive tackle.
However, despite these needs, Veach didn’t rule out the possibility of selecting a player from a non-premium position, indicating that best player available is a key factor in their decision-making process. “Our goal is to just make that selection and add a player here that is going to be an impact player on our team,” Veach said. “I don’t want to overthink that, and I don’t want to take a lesser player. Just someone that’s going to come in here, be an impact player, help us from day one.”
Could Caleb Downs Be the Surprise Pick?
One name that has emerged in discussions surrounding the Chiefs’ No. 9 pick is Caleb Downs, a safety from Ohio State. Downs is considered a top-10 talent, and although safety might not be the Chiefs’ highest priority, his leadership qualities and cerebral approach to the game could make him an appealing choice.
Veach’s comments about adding a “leader” to the safety position align well with Downs’ skill set. However, with so many needs on defense, it remains uncertain whether the Chiefs will select Downs or go with a player at a more immediate position of need.
Chiefs’ Approach to the Draft
The Chiefs are no strangers to making bold draft decisions. In 2017, they traded up to select Patrick Mahomes with the 10th overall pick, a move that turned out to be one of the most successful in franchise history. With this in mind, the Chiefs are hoping to make a similar impact with this year’s top pick, whether that means selecting a game-changer on defense or a dynamic playmaker for the offense.
The Possibility of Trading Down
In addition to staying put at No. 9, another option for the Chiefs is trading down in the draft. Kansas City has the No. 29 pick in the first round as well, thanks to the trade of Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. If the Chiefs find a willing trade partner, they could look to move down and acquire more assets, potentially targeting a player they believe would be a better fit further down the board.
The Arizona Cardinals, currently holding the No. 34 pick, could be one such team looking to trade back into the first round. If the Cardinals pass on taking quarterback Ty Simpson at No. 3, they may make a move to grab him later in the first round, which could create an opportunity for the Chiefs to move back five spots and add more picks.
Top Prospects for Kansas City at No. 9
While a potential trade could change their draft strategy, the Chiefs have a few top targets in mind for their No. 9 pick. Rueben Bain Jr., a defensive end from Miami, has been highlighted as a strong possibility, with some analysts predicting him as a likely pick. Bain is a physical player with a high motor, and his standout performances in the College Football Playoffs have made him a fan favorite.
On the offensive side of the ball, the Chiefs could target a wide receiver or offensive tackle to help bolster their roster for the future. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm, adding weapons around him will be a priority to maintain the Chiefs’ offensive prowess.
What to Expect on Draft Night
As the NFL Draft approaches, expect plenty of drama, speculation, and potential surprises. The Chiefs are in a favorable position with two first-round picks, but how they use them will depend on how the draft board falls and what opportunities arise during the first few rounds.
Whether they stick with the No. 9 pick or make a trade, it’s clear that the Chiefs are determined to add impactful players to their roster—whether they come from premium positions or less glamorous ones. As always, Brett Veach and the Chiefs’ front office will be watching the draft closely, ready to make moves that will shape the future of their championship-contending team.
Stay tuned for more updates as the draft draws closer and the Chiefs’ big decisions unfold.
