The Kansas City Chiefs have been making waves in the NFL world with their recent trade of All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. While the loss of a talented player like McDuffie may be tough to swallow, it also means that the Chiefs now have two first-round picks in the upcoming 2026 NFL draft. This is an exciting prospect for Chiefs fans, as they have not had two first-round picks in a draft since 2015.
With the 9th and 29th overall picks in the draft, the Chiefs have the opportunity to add some young, talented players to their roster. The 29th pick is a spot that Chiefs fans have become accustomed to in recent years, but the 9th pick is a new and exciting position for the team. So, let’s take a look at some of the best draft prospects that the Chiefs could choose with their two first-round picks.
Devin Lloyd, Linebacker, Utah – With the departure of McDuffie, the Chiefs’ defense is in need of a playmaker. Devin Lloyd could be the perfect fit. As a linebacker, Lloyd has the speed, strength, and agility to make an impact on both the run and pass defense. His instincts and tackling ability make him a force to be reckoned with, and he would be a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ defense.
Evan Neal, Offensive Tackle, Alabama – Protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes is always a top priority for the Chiefs, and Evan Neal could be the answer. Standing at 6’7″ and 360 pounds, Neal is a dominant force on the offensive line. He has the strength and technique to keep defenders at bay and open up holes for the run game. With his size and potential, Neal could be a cornerstone for the Chiefs’ offensive line for years to come.
George Karlaftis, Edge Rusher, Purdue – The Chiefs’ pass rush has been a weak spot in recent years, and George Karlaftis could help change that. At 6’4″ and 270 pounds, Karlaftis has the size, strength, and speed to be a dominant edge rusher. He is also versatile, able to line up as a defensive end or outside linebacker. With his natural pass rushing abilities, Karlaftis could provide a much-needed boost to the Chiefs’ defense.
Chris Olave, Wide Receiver, Ohio State – The Chiefs have one of the most explosive offenses in the league, but adding another weapon for Mahomes wouldn’t hurt. Chris Olave is a dynamic wide receiver with speed, route-running ability, and reliable hands. He would fit in perfectly with the Chiefs’ high-octane passing attack and could create even more mismatches for opposing defenses.
Ahmad Gardner, Cornerback, Cincinnati – Losing McDuffie leaves a hole in the Chiefs’ secondary, and Ahmad Gardner could fill that void. As a cornerback, Gardner has exceptional ball skills, fluid movement, and the size to match up against bigger receivers. He also has the confidence and mentality to thrive in high-pressure situations, making him a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ defense.
This is just a small sampling of the many talented prospects that the Chiefs could choose with their first-round picks. Other notable names include Kayvon Thibodeaux, Derek Stingley Jr., and Kyle Hamilton, but it’s impossible to predict who will still be available when the Chiefs are on the clock.
One thing is for sure, with two first-round picks, the Chiefs have the opportunity to add some top-tier talent to their roster and continue their dominance in the NFL. And with their track record of drafting and developing young players, Chiefs fans have every reason to be excited about the upcoming draft.
Not only do the two first-round picks give the Chiefs a chance to strengthen their roster for the 2026 season, but it also sets them up for long-term success. With a core of young, talented players, the Chiefs could be a force to be reckoned with for years to come.
So, although losing McDuffie was a tough blow for Chiefs fans, the trade has given them an exciting opportunity to improve their team. The 9th and 29th overall picks in the 2026 NFL draft are valuable assets, and the Chiefs must make the most of them. With the right selections, the Chiefs could solidify their position as one of the top teams in the
