As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to make their selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, they do so coming off a hard-fought Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. While the sting of falling just short of a historic three-peat still lingers, GM Brett Veach and head coach Andy Reid are focused on retooling a roster that remains among the NFL’s elite. But the message coming out of Kansas City is clear: it’s time to get stronger in the trenches.
The First-Round Debate: Tackle or Best Player Available?
The Chiefs hold the 31st overall pick in the first round, and much of the early speculation centers on whether they’ll target an offensive or defensive lineman. With Joe Thuney’s departure leaving a hole at guard and Turk Wharton’s exit thinning the depth at defensive tackle, Kansas City has clear needs on both sides of the line.
The offensive line, which was once considered one of the team’s biggest strengths, looked outmatched at times in the Super Bowl against the Eagles’ ferocious front seven. While youngsters like Trey Smith and Creed Humphrey remain core pieces, there’s uncertainty at left guard and questions about depth at tackle. Jawaan Taylor has yet to fully meet expectations at right tackle, and the team could be tempted by an athletic, versatile lineman who could play either tackle or slide inside if needed.
On the defensive side, the Chiefs still boast Chris Jones, but they need to replenish the interior rotation. Losing Wharton creates a need for a disruptive, high-motor defensive tackle who can contribute early on passing downs.
Despite these needs, Veach has often leaned toward a Best Player Available (BPA) approach, especially when the roster is otherwise solid. If a premier cornerback, wide receiver, or even a pass-rusher falls into their lap, don’t be surprised to see the Chiefs pivot.
Middle Rounds: Running Back on the Radar
While not a pressing need, running back is a position Kansas City could address in the middle rounds. Isiah Pacheco continues to be a workhorse, but his physical style invites wear and tear. With little else for depth, adding a back with pass-catching ability and burst could complement Pacheco well and add another layer to the offense.
Names like Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson, Kansas’ Devin Neal , or even ASU’s Cam Skattebo could intrigue Kansas City on Day 2 or early Day 3, depending on how the board falls.
Wide Receiver? Never Off the Table
Though the Chiefs added talent at wide receiver during the offseason, including signing Hollywood Brown to a one-year-deal and young players developing in the system, fans and analysts alike have learned never to rule out a wideout early. Patrick Mahomes thrives when surrounded by versatile playmakers, and if an explosive option like Mizzou’s Luther Burden is available late in Round 1, it could be too tempting to pass up.
Final Thoughts: Flexibility Is Key
The Chiefs enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a roster still built to win now but in need of reinforcing the foundation. Whether it’s protecting Mahomes better or ensuring Chris Jones has help up front, improving along the offensive and defensive lines appears to be a logical priority. That said, with Veach’s draft history and Reid’s offensive vision, no position is ever truly off the table in Round 1.
Fans hoping for a splash pick might need to settle for something less glamorous — but more vital — in the trenches. And if history is any guide, that might be exactly what this team needs to get back to the mountaintop in 2025.
