The Kansas City Chiefs added another piece to their secondary Friday night. After a small trade-up, they used pick No. 85 to land a cornerback with upside. Nohl Williams, a standout defender from California, became the team’s third-round choice. The Chiefs dealt a future fourth-round pick to the Patriots to make the move.
Kansas City Chiefs Take Press-Corner Prospect Nohl Williams
Kansas City valued Williams’ ball production and physical press-man ability. He led the country in interceptions last season and consistently disrupted receivers at the line. Williams excels in zone looks where he can read the quarterback’s eyes. He tracks the ball well downfield and has shown the ability to finish plays.
The former Cal defensive back plays with balance and discipline near the boundary. His footwork and technique in press coverage help neutralize quicker receivers. He lacks high-end speed, which limits his recovery skills when beaten vertically. While he’s capable in man coverage, he sometimes struggles to stay connected against shiftier wideouts.
Final Thoughts
This pick aligns with how Kansas City continues to build its defensive backfield. General Manager Brett Veach favors players with ball skills and physicality at the catch point. Williams may not project as a shutdown cornerback, but he also fits well with Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme. His instincts, effort, and coverage technique could earn him a rotational role early.
He’ll likely start as a depth piece behind Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. However, his nose for the football gives him a chance to earn meaningful snaps this season. With the AFC stacked with elite passing attacks, depth in the secondary matters. The Chiefs are betting on Williams’ playmaking to make a difference in the long run.
