Chiefs don’t need to change their 2026 NFL Draft plans despite some pretty significant recent news
The Chiefs will be just fine at offensive tackle.
The Kansas City Chiefs have already made a few roster cuts this offseason, and they were moves needed to get their cap situation under control.
On Monday, the Chiefs let right tackle Jawaan Taylor know they intend to cut him if they cannot agree to a trade, which would help to create approximately $20 million in cap space. The recent cut of defensive end Mike Danna, along with potential upcoming moves—whether cuts or contract restructuring—demonstrates focused cap management. With Taylor gone, fans may be clamoring for a heavy offensive line investment in the draft. However, this move must not alter the Chiefs’ draft strategy, particularly in the first round.
Chiefs have invested enough in the offensive line
The argument is that the Chiefs need to continue investing in the offensive line to protect Patrick Mahomes. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Do they need some more depth? Yes, but at some point, you have to stop investing in the offensive line and invest literally everywhere else.
To clarify, the Chiefs’ offensive line has already received considerable attention. The team features a first-round pick at left tackle, a second-round pick at left guard, the league’s highest-paid center, and the highest-paid right guard. Even with an opening at right tackle, there is no justification for spending the No. 9 overall pick on a tackle.
This tackle class isn’t amazing. There are some really good players for good value in this draft. But, for example, left tackle Josh Simmons would easily be the best tackle in this draft class. The Chiefs need to stick with the original plan: getting a receiver, edge rusher, or running back at No. 9. They can get a tackle later in the draft or even in free agency to replace Taylor.
But, they also really like what they have in Moore; it’s just about whether he plays right tackle or not. They also like Esa Pole. So, there are plenty of ways for the Chiefs to continue to address the offensive line, but there’s no reason to continue to heavily invest.
Kansas City Chiefs News
Kansas City Chiefs starting playmaker hangs on to NFL Combine record after a few close calls
The Chiefs still have the fastest player in the league.
