The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, set to take place in Pittsburgh on April 23, with analysts offering a range of predictions for the team’s first-round selections. Various mock drafts from major sports outlets have identified several potential players who could join the Chiefs at picks No. 9 and No. 29.
The draft holds significance for the Chiefs as they look to address key roster needs following recent departures and injuries. With two first-round selections, the team has an opportunity to add talent on both offense and defense.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein projected that Kansas City may select Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano at No. 9, describing him as “a polished, athletic offensive lineman who can step into the right tackle spot or bump inside in the future if need be.” For pick No. 29, Zierlein suggested Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston, stating: “The Chiefs target another position of need and grab a big, ball-winning target to add more firepower to the offense.”
Nick Shook from NFL.com predicted LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane would be chosen ninth overall: “General manager Brett Veach immediately addresses the need by taking the most consistent corner in this class.” At pick twenty-nine, Shook pointed to Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq: “GM Brett Veach can’t pass up the opportunity to add a freakishly athletic TE to a team that has won championships in part by relying on the position.”
ESPN’s Peter Schrager suggested Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson at No. 9—”Tyson pops more than any other receiver in this draft class; he just needs to stay healthy”—and Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood at No. 29: “Hood… brings a pro-style mentality and a knack for being around the ball.” Other analysts mentioned prospects such as Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks, San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson, UCF edge rusher Malachi Lawrence and Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor.
As anticipation builds ahead of draft day, observers will watch closely which direction General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid choose with their high-value picks.
