Regrading the K.C. Chiefs 2013 draft class

Final Grade: A-

It should go without saying that the trade for Alex Smith has absolutely got to be considered as a part of this draft class. Immediately upon his arrival to Kansas City, Andy Reid correctly deduced that there was not a franchise quarterback on the roster, and not one available with the number one overall selection, and made a franchise-defining move to secure the veteran from San Francisco.

Kansas City used the 2013 draft to define the next eight years of Chiefs football history. That run includes five consecutive AFC West Championships, three straight AFC Championship games, two consecutive Super Bowl appearances and, of course, the Super Bowl LIV title. None of that run happens without a remarkable 2013 draft and turnaround.

The team parlayed its draft selections into adequate placeholders at the backup running back and center positions, while admittedly also swinging and missing on many lower round selections. But, it also acquired three future Ring of Honor members in Smith and Fisher who were integral to the team’s turnaround, and most importantly drafted a Canton-bound tight end in Travis Kelce. Given the resume built in Kansas City by the three of them, the 2013 draft was a resounding success.