NFL analyst calls his shot with the Kansas City Chiefs having a Defensive Rookie of the Year winner in 2026
The Kansas City Chiefs drafted three defensive players in Rounds 1 and 2 who could have a shot at winning Defensive Rookie of the Year.
With their first three picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Kansas City Chiefs targeted elite defensive talent.
After trading Trent McDuffie and letting Jaylen Watson walk, the Chiefs needed another CB. They focused on defense in the draft, with their first four picks all on that side. Two picks were cornerbacks, two were pass rushers—addressing their biggest flaws. Mansoor Delane, whom they traded up for at No. 6, could be a Superstar.
In fact, some think he will be a star right out of the gate in his rookie season.
“Brett Veach wasn’t the general manager in 2015 when they took Marcus Peters in Kansas City, but he was there,” NFL analyst Steve Muench said. “He was the co-director of player personnel. I think Mansoor Delane is going to have that same sort of impact this year. I think because he’s a rookie, teams are going to test him, and I think they’re going to get burned. I think that he is going to stand up to the test and do very well. I like him in that system with those coaches, give me Mansoor Delane [as DROY].”
Chiefs will lean on Delane to be CB1 right from the get-go
With McDuffie and Watson gone, the Chiefs now have a very young CB room. Nohl Williams and Delane, a sophomore and a rookie, could start on the boundary. Canady, the rookie nickel, may see significant playing time in Year 1.
The Chiefs have little experience to lean on, except maybe Kristian Fulton, although his injury history limits that. Delane will play a huge role in Year 1, showing why the Chiefs traded up for him and believe he’s ready. We’ll soon find out if that’s the case.
However, he has the tools and traits to be ready right away. He certainly has it all when it comes to being an impressive rookie. Is there room for development? Yes. But, he can be exactly what Muench and many others believe he can. Having him as the DROY over guys like David Bailey, Arvell Reese, and others would be huge for the Chiefs. Not to mention, winning the award as a CB is very hard. He’s got to be extremely impressive to do that.