The Kansas City Chiefs are entering the 2026 NFL Draft with a different mindset than in previous years. After a rare missed playoff appearance, largely due to quarterback Patrick Mahomes suffering a season-ending ACL injury, the Chiefs are reevaluating their roster needs and long-term strategy.
Holding the No. 9 overall pick, the Chiefs have a valuable asset, but there’s growing speculation that they may trade down to accumulate more draft picks and address multiple immediate needs.
Possible Trade Scenarios
ESPN analyst Peter Schrager recently hinted that the Chiefs might consider trading back in the draft to collect additional assets, a strategy that aligns with their history under general manager Brett Veach. “Kansas City could potentially be a trade-back team. They’re looking to collect as many assets as possible,” Schrager said.
The Chiefs have a history of taking a more aggressive approach to trades, focusing on short-term success rather than solely on long-term development. With Travis Kelce aging and the team facing a transition period, this “win-now” mentality is front and center. The Chiefs are looking to find players who can contribute immediately, especially after the roster depth issues were exposed during the 2025 season.
Potential Trade: Jonathan Greenard for No. 9 Pick and Felix Anudike-Uzomah
One of the more intriguing trade scenarios involves the Chiefs acquiring edge rusher Jonathan Greenard from the Minnesota Vikings. The Chiefs could potentially package their No. 9 pick and former first-rounder Felix Anudike-Uzomah in exchange for Greenard, an established pass rusher with proven production. This deal would drop the Chiefs to the No. 18 pick, allowing them to fill a significant gap in their defense with a reliable pass rusher.
This move would directly address the Chiefs’ need for a stronger pass rush, an area of struggle in the 2025 season. Top edge rusher prospects, like Rueben Bain Jr. and David Bailey, could be off the board by the time Kansas City’s pick arrives.
Addressing Offensive Needs
On the offensive side of the ball, the Chiefs will also need to bolster their pass-catching options, especially with Mahomes returning and Rashee Rice already a key part of the receiving corps. However, Carnell Tate and Jordyn Tyson, two of the top wide receivers, may not be available by the time the Chiefs make their selection.
Another major point of focus is finding a long-term successor for Travis Kelce. Former Chiefs quarterback Chase Daniel has voiced his enthusiasm for Kenyon Sadiq, a tight end from Oregon, writing on X, “I can’t stop imagining Kenyon Sadiq landing at 9 with the Chiefs & immediately lining up with Patrick Mahomes.”
Sadiq is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick, and trading down could improve the Chiefs’ chances of landing him while also acquiring additional draft assets.
Pivotal Decision for the Chiefs
Ultimately, the Kansas City Chiefs face a critical decision: whether to stay at No. 9 or move down to secure more immediate-impact players. The priority is clear: find players who can contribute right away and help the team rebound after a rare setback in 2025.
Expect the Chiefs to be aggressive and calculated on draft night, with a keen focus on improving their roster for the upcoming season. Whether they remain at the top of the draft board or maneuver for more flexibility, Kansas City is poised to make bold moves to get back into title contention.
