Kansas City Chiefs GM Brett Veach Outlines Strategy for 2026 NFL Draft
Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach discussed the team's approach to the 2026 NFL Draft in a press conference. The Chiefs hold the 9th overall pick, their first selection in the top 10 since drafting quarterback Patrick Mahomes in 2017. Veach described the draft as "unique" and stated the team has needs on both offense and defense, with the final decision likely influenced by how the first several picks unfold.
Draft Position and Team Context
The Chiefs hold the 9th overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. This marks the first time the franchise has picked in the top 10 since 2017, when they selected quarterback Patrick Mahomes 10th overall.
The team is coming off a 2025 season in which it did not qualify for the playoffs, finishing with a 6-11 record.
Identified Roster Needs
General Manager Brett Veach identified multiple positions where the team seeks improvement. The areas mentioned include:
- Defensive backfield
- Offensive line
- Edge rusher
- Wide receiver
"I think where we're at with our roster you can't eliminate any one need because there are a lot of them."
He added that the team's expectation every year is to compete for a division title, make the playoffs, and contend for a championship.
Recent Roster Changes
The Chiefs experienced several personnel changes during the offseason:
Player Departures:
- Cornerback Trent McDuffie was traded to the Los Angeles Rams.
- Cornerback Jaylen Watson signed a contract with the Los Angeles Rams.
- Right tackle Jawaan Taylor departed the team.
- Safety Bryan Cook signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Player Addition:
- The team signed running back Kenneth Walker III, who was named Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl LX.
Draft Strategy and Philosophy
Veach characterized the 2026 draft class as "unique," noting that the high evaluation of players at positions not traditionally considered premium—such as offensive tackle—creates varied potential scenarios for teams selecting early.
- Flexible Approach: Veach indicated the Chiefs' position allows for multiple directions with the 9th pick. "I think it does open up that No. 9 pick to go in any one direction," he said. The team's strategy will depend on how the first five or six selections are made.
- Selection Goal: Veach said the goal is to select a player who can be an impact player from his first day with the team, emphasizing the "best player available" philosophy.
- Building for Present and Future: Regarding team construction with quarterback Patrick Mahomes, Veach noted the balance between immediate competitiveness and long-term planning. "The tricky part is trying to maintain that standard, but also keep an eye on the future and knowing that Pat's still going to be here for a long time," he stated. He added that building through the offensive and defensive lines is a foundational priority.
- Wide Receiver Evaluation: In response to questions, Veach discussed several wide receiver prospects potentially available near the Chiefs' pick, including Ohio State's Carnell Tate, Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson, and USC's Makai Lemon. He also mentioned Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr.
External Mock Draft Projections
Recent mock drafts published by NFL.com have frequently linked the Kansas City Chiefs to prospects at three positions with the 9th overall pick:
- Offensive Tackle: Francis Mauigoa (Miami) or Spencer Fano (Utah)
- Edge Rusher: Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami)
- Cornerback: Mansoor Delane (LSU)
One mock draft scenario projected the Chiefs trading up to the 6th overall pick to select an edge rusher.
Preparation Process
Veach stated he has been meeting regularly with head coach Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to review draft preparations. He said the organization has identified what it wants to do as the draft approaches.