One widely circulated scenario suggests Kansas City could swap its picks at 9 and 29 for 3 and 65, preserving the 40th overall pick. That path would let the Chiefs jump into position to select a desired edge defender or playmaking linebacker while still maintaining Day Two and Day Three draft capital.
If Kansas City lands at No. 3, the Chiefs would reportedly have a choice between David Bailey of Texas Tech and Rueben Bain Jr. of Miami. Bailey would bring explosive rush potential, while Bain is viewed as a dynamic edge presence, giving Kansas City options to complement its existing pass rush.
David Bailey posted 14.5 sacks in 2025, leading Division I, and recorded 73 total pressures along with 42 hurries and 18 QB hits. At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, he offers elite pressure creation but questions remain about his run defense, an area teams would weigh against his pass-rush impact alongside Chris Jones and George Karlaftis. Kansas City’s recent addition of Khyiris Tonga could help shore up the run game.
Rueben Bain Jr. is another intriguing option for the Chiefs, representing a different style of edge threat with potential to disrupt offenses from the outside. Bain’s skill set would give Kansas City flexibility to tailor its pass-rush package and pairing with its existing defensive line.
Trading up to No. 3 would come with opportunity and risk for the Chiefs. Sacrificing picks to move up could limit immediate flexibility to address other needs, such as offensive tackle, wide receiver, or cornerback, on Day 1 and Day 2. Still, the 40th overall pick in Round 2 and potential free-agent depth at wide receiver could help Kansas City balance a new, high-impact addition with its broader roster goals.
In summary, a potential blockbuster move up to No. 3 presents real upside for Kansas City’s pass rush and overall defense, provided the Chiefs can execute the trade while maintaining enough capital to address other roster needs. If they pursue this path, the Chiefs would enter the draft with a clear plan to land an immediate-impact edge rusher and still shape the rest of their roster through Day 2 picks and free-agent opportunities.
