The Chiefs Have Elite Defensive Options in the First Round

The Kansas City Chiefs have a top ten pick in the upcoming draft. What are some defensive prospects they must keep their eye on?

Nov 2, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo on the field before a game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs have the ninth overall pick, which they need to use to bolster their roster anyway they can. They have needs on both offense and defense, but I'd argue that defense is a higher priority because of who they have as their quarterback.

Besides, they spent a good chunk of their money in free agency, bringing back Travis Kelce, and their big splash signing was bringing Kenneth Walker III to the team. I don't doubt their offense will take a step up, but I worry about their defense after losing both Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson.

Top Defensive Prospects

Jan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) against the Mississippi Rebels during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Depending on how the draft board falls, the Chiefs have a chance to snag Rueben Bain Jr. at the ninth overall pick. His size shouldn't be a concern for a team trying to find their Chris Jones replacement, as he's just as explosive as all those edge rushers who have a bigger frame and longer arms.

He bends his hips and plays with such fluidity that he will beat most tackles one-on-one, but that lack of size does limit his effectiveness if he gets double-teamed. He has undeniable star power, and him paired with Steve Spagnuolo for the foreseeable future is a scary possibility for the rest of the NFL.

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; LSU defensive back Mansoor Delane (DB06) speaks to media members during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

If the Chiefs want a replacement for McDuffie, look no further than Mansoor Delane. He's undoubtedly the best cornerback prospect in a draft class full of them, with his quick transitions from man to zone and press coverages.

He's really taken off in the past two seasons, which means he's peaking at the right time. He will be a lockdown corner for the Chiefs, especially with their track record of having ballhawks in their secondary consistently. He's who they should target the most. I have a lot of faith that Delane will be a top ten corner in the NFL.

Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez (LB21) speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Chiefs have two first-round picks, and Jacob Rodriguez should be in consideration for the 29th overall pick. He's a linebacker who always found a way to jar the ball loose with his big tackles and also has the speed and play recognition to diagnose passes at a high level.

His big-play hunting may lead to the occasional missed tackle, but he'd be a strong presence over the middle of the field, which would anchor their defense for years to come. Linebacker isn't their most pressing need, but he would be a game-changer for them every week.