The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a pivotal moment in their quest to bolster their defensive end position. With a pass rush that's been underwhelming for several seasons and limited cap space, the Chiefs are in a tight spot. The release of veteran Mike Danna hasn't freed up enough room to snag a top-tier pass rusher in free agency, leaving the NFL Draft as their best shot.
Holding the 9th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chiefs are eyeing a starting-caliber edge player. However, even with this high pick, there's a risk they might miss out on the premier talents unless they consider trading up.
The consensus among draft analysts is that three edge players-Arvell Reese from Ohio State, David Bailey from Texas Tech, and Rueben Bain Jr. from Miami-are top-ten material. Chiefs fans might debate the fit of these players, but their talent is undeniable.
If the Chiefs stick with the 9th pick, they might have to choose between reaching for a lesser-rated defensive end or trading back for better value. This situation presents a rare opportunity to secure a top-ten talent, something the Chiefs can't afford to squander.
The average mock draft positions Reese, Bailey, and Bain within the top seven picks, which spells trouble for Kansas City at number nine. In some scenarios, Rueben Bain Jr. is still on the board when the Chiefs pick, but he's also projected to go as high as the top four in other mocks. To ensure they land one of these top prospects, the Chiefs might need to trade up.
The big questions are: How high should they aim? Which teams might be open to moving back?
What would it cost the Chiefs to climb up a few spots? Teams like the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and Cleveland Browns, picking between 4 and 6, might consider trading down for the right price.
However, the Chiefs would likely need to offer significant assets, potentially including future picks.
If the Chiefs believe they'll return to late first-round picks next year, they might gamble by trading their future first-rounder. This move would add pressure on both the team and their new recruit, but securing an elite pass rusher could make it worthwhile. A possible scenario could involve moving up to the 5th spot, giving up next year's first-round pick, and receiving an additional fourth-round pick in return.
The Chiefs can't afford to cut corners at defensive end this offseason. With George Karlaftis, Ashton Gillotte, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah not providing enough firepower, a significant addition is crucial.
Without the cap space for a free agent, the draft remains their best hope. If the top prospects are off the board by pick No.
9, General Manager Brett Veach may need to make an aggressive move to secure a game-changing talent.