Six first-round sleepers for Chiefs heading into 2023 NFL Draft

Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee

The Chiefs have been keeping an eye on the options at wide receiver in this draft class. While they likely won’t be able to get the top selection at 31, there are certainly still players who should be under consideration at wide receiver at the end of the first round. Perhaps the most overlooked yet realistic option is Jalin Hyatt out of Tennessee.

Hyatt makes a lot of sense for the Chiefs who rely on separation and making plays in the open field in the West Coast system. Hyatt is is a difficult receiver to play against in press-man coverage. Hyatt is both explosive and elusive and could become an excellent receiver in Kansas City’s offense.

Marvin Mims Jr., WR, Oklahoma

One of the most underrated receivers in this draft class, Marvin Mims Jr. is the whole package. With tremendous speed and quick acceleration, Mims is both a great deep threat and could be a playmaker close to the line of scrimmage on jet sweeps and wide receiver screens. The Chiefs might be in the market for a Mecole Hardman replacement and Mims fits the bill.

Mims offers an underrated aspect of what Andy Reid wants in his wide receivers. Despite having a smaller frame, Mims is a physical blocker. He is not afraid of contact and is willing to push defenders downfield. The Chiefs could use a player like this in all phases of their offense.

Brian Branch, S, Alabama

One player that has been rarely mentioned in Chiefs’ circles is Brian Branch. Although they signed Mike Edwards this offseason as a Juan Thornhill replacement and they drafted Bryan Cook in the second round last year, safety is a somewhat underrated need. With a need for both depth and a surefire option to pair with Justin Reid, Brian Branch would be a great selection at the end of the first round.

It’s certainly possible that Branch is long gone by the Chiefs’ selection at 31. If he is available, however, he would offer great on-field intelligence, physicality, and versatility. Branch would be a great addition to an already young and physical defense. With upside as a pass defender and a knack for making plays in the open field, Branch would be a tremendous addition to the Kansas City defense for the long term.