reputation for draft-day brilliance, but this offseason could be his most pivotal yet. Tight end Travis Kelce, 35, remains elite but has hinted at the physical toll of the long grind. Wide receiver depth continues to be a concern despite flashes from Rashee Rice. And while Patrick Mahomes still covers plenty of flaws, the Chiefs can’t rely on him to carry a thin supporting cast forever.
Draft Targets That Fit the Chiefs’ Blueprint
If Kansas City ends up drafting late in the first round again, they could aim for a young offensive playmaker — either a tight end successor or a dynamic receiver who thrives in space.
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Brock Bowers (Georgia)–style prospects will be long gone early, but several athletic tight ends are emerging in college football’s 2025–26 cycle who could grow behind Kelce.
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At receiver, players like Luther Burden III (Missouri) or Evan Stewart (Texas A&M) bring the kind of yards-after-catch explosion Andy Reid covets in his system.
Adding one of those weapons could instantly revitalize the Chiefs’ offense and ensure Mahomes has another elite option for years to come.
Beyond Offense: Building for Longevity
Defensively, Kansas City remains solid thanks to Chris Jones and a young secondary. But Veach’s strategy of drafting “smart, fast, and versatile” defenders must continue. Expect the Chiefs to target another edge rusher or hybrid linebacker to keep Steve Spagnuolo’s defense fresh and flexible.
The Big Picture
The message is clear: Kansas City doesn’t need a rebuild — just a renewal. With the right draft class, they can stay ahead of the NFL’s youth wave while giving Mahomes a fresh arsenal for the next chapter of his career.
For a franchise built on innovation, adding another young star through the draft isn’t just smart — it’s how dynasties evolve.
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