The Kansas City Chiefs enter the 2025 NFL Draft with the hopes of retooling a team that fell one game short of winning its third straight Super Bowl. After falling just short in Super Bowl LIX, the previous two-time defending champions look to reload. The NFL Draft’s first round officially begins on Thursday, April 24, at 8 p.m. ET in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It will go on until Saturday, April 26 with its standard seven rounds.
Kansas City heads into this draft with a total of eight picks. General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid will be at the forefront of the Chiefs draft process as they work together to identify young, high-upside talent. With several aging veterans and upcoming contract decisions, the 2025 draft could help lay the foundation for the next chapter of the Kansas City Chiefs organization.
Kansas City Chiefs Draft Pick Breakdown
Here’s a full breakdown of Kansas City’s 2025 NFL Draft selections
Day 1:
• Round 1, Pick 31 (Overall 31)
Day 2:
• Round 2, Pick 31 (Overall 63)
• Round 3, Pick 2 (Overall 66) [from Titans]
• Round 3, Pick 31 (Overall 95)
Day 3:
• Round 4, Pick 31 (Overall 133)
• Round 7, Pick 13 (Overall 226) [from Panthers]
• Round 7, Pick 31 (Overall 251) [compensatory]
• Round 7, Pick 41 (Overall 259) [compensatory]
Pre-Draft Visits Reveal Priorities
The Chiefs hosted 18 players during their Top 30 visits, and a trend quickly emerged. Eight of those invitees were offensive linemen, and five specifically played tackle. That suggests the front office is seriously evaluating the trenches early in the draft.
Among those tackles were Anthony Belton, Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan, Caleb Etienne, Aireontae Ersery, and Dalton Cooper. The three interior linemen included Mose Vavao, Esa Pole, and Bryce Cabeldue. While the team signed Jaylon Moore to protect Patrick Mahomes’ blind side, his experience is limited. Moore has just 12 starts in four seasons.
Kansas City’s offensive line depth took another hit with the trade of Joe Thuney. He was moved to the Bears in a cap-related deal, leaving a void at guard. That combination of needs suggests the team could be targeting a lineman at No. 31, especially with several highly ranked prospects still on the board.
Building the Trenches, Again
Reid and Veach have always prioritized building from the inside out. This year appears no different, especially with potential changes looming along the offensive line. Right Tackle Jawaan Taylor carries a massive 2026 cap hit, and cutting him next offseason could save $20 million.
If the board doesn’t fall favorably at No. 31, Kansas City may still opt for value on Day 2. The franchise owns back-to-back third-round picks, including one from Tennessee. That opens the door for adding a developmental tackle or guard who can learn behind veterans this season.
Still, nothing is guaranteed. If a top-tier defensive lineman slips, Veach could pivot. The team has just five defensive tackles under contract and none on rookie deals. Pairing a young player with Chris Jones could be an attractive long-term move for defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s unit.
Addressing Offensive Skill Positions
While the offensive and defensive lines are clear priorities, don’t overlook the backfield. As of now, Isiah Pacheco remains the starter, but Kansas City doesn’t have a single running back under contract beyond 2025. That’s why drafting one on Day 2 or early Day 3 could be a smart play.
Mahomes accounted for more than 72% of the team’s offensive yards last season. That number is too high, even for a generational quarterback. Finding a complementary back who brings explosiveness and durability would help balance the offense.
Wide receiver and tight end could also be in play late in the draft. Travis Kelce remains productive, but he’s nearing the end of his career. Adding a young, athletic tight end who can eventually take over the role would be a future-focused move for the franchise.
Final Thoughts
The Kansas City Chiefs are in a favorable position entering the 2025 NFL Draft. They don’t have many glaring holes, but they do have aging veterans and future financial decisions to prepare for. That makes this year’s class a key opportunity to build long-term depth and stability.
Expect Veach and Reid to focus on the trenches early, particularly offensive tackle and guard. However, don’t be surprised if a defensive lineman or skill position player ends up being the pick at No. 31. Flexibility and preparation will once again define Kansas City’s draft approach.
