One of KC’s biggest needs is edge rushing, and the Chiefs hosted Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey on a top-30 visit. Schrager believes the New York Jets are the likely destination for Bailey at No. 2, citing his production and overall impact. If true, Kansas City may have to look elsewhere or consider a trade, but moving up to No. 2 would be costly, making a straightforward pursuit of Bailey unlikely.
Safety is another angle for the Chiefs at No. 9. Schrager noted that Ohio State’s Caleb Downs is not expected to be available by the time the Cowboys are selecting at No. 12, leaving KC with a potential opening at No. 9 if they value Downs highly. While KC already added Alohi Gilman in free agency, Downs would provide immediate depth behind him and could set the stage for a stronger secondary plus another cornerback later in the draft.
Wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is described as a wildcard in Schrager’s framework. Tyson has the talent to go in the top 10, but a recent medical history (multiple injuries) could push him down the board. With Rashee Rice’s off-field concerns now resolved, Kansas City might be more willing to take a calculated risk on Tyson. He’s holding a key workout soon, which could determine whether he slides or goes higher, potentially making him an option at No. 9 or, if he falls, at No. 29.
Overall, the draft intel suggests Kansas City could pursue a combination of defensive and secondary upgrades, potentially pairing a safety like Downs with a cornerback later in the round, while exploring edge help options beyond Bailey. The plan remains fluid, depending on how the board shifts and how players perform in workouts and medical evaluations.
In summary, the Chiefs’ draft strategy appears likely to hinge on how the Jets’ No. 2 pick unfolds, Downs’ availability, and Tyson’s health trajectory. With AAlohi Gilman in place and depth at cornerback and edge still in question, KC could target a safety and another defensive piece at No. 9, and revisit receiver or edge opportunities later in the first round based on workouts and evaluations.
