Kansas City Chiefs all-time best NFL Draft picks by round
By Jacob Milham
Round 3: Guard Will Shields
As the 1993 NFL Draft began, the Chiefs held the 74th overall pick. It was the first pick in that draft for those Chiefs, but Kansas City was not leaning on rookies the following season. They had acquired future Hall of Famers quarterback Joe Montana and running back Marcus Allen after the 1992 season, where they lost in the Wildcard round. The Chiefs’ coaching staff and front office had their sights set on improving their offensive line, and Shields was an ideal candidate to bolster their unit.
Shields certainly did not disappoint.
Shields suited up for 224 games for Kansas City and started a whopping 223 games at right guard. His 231 starts (including postseason games) at right guard set an NFL record, one that is not close to being broken. Shields also set the Chiefs record for most Pro Bowl nominations, with 12 from 1995 to 2006. The Chiefs had a 1,000-yard rusher in the five seasons that Shields started. For reference, the Chiefs have only had six rushers reach that milestone since Shields retired in 2007.
Shields was not only a dominant force on the field, but he was also known for his philanthropic work off the field. He founded the Will to Succeed Foundation in 1993, which focuses on providing educational opportunities and resources to underprivileged youth in Kansas City. He won the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award in 2003 for his foundation’s work in the community.
The Chiefs’ selection of Shields in 1993 proved to be a monumental move for the franchise. He became the embodiment of consistency, excellence, and durability throughout his career, earning numerous accolades and leaving an enduring mark on the Chiefs organization. His dominance on the field, combined with his dedication to making a positive impact off the field, solidified Shields’ status as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history. His legacy continues to resonate not only within the Chiefs Kingdom but also within the Kansas City community, where his philanthropic efforts have made a lasting difference in the lives of underprivileged youth. Shields’ story remains a shining example of talent, dedication, and selflessness, serving as an inspiration to future generations of Chiefs players and fans.
Honorable Mention: TE Travis Kelce, OT Jim Tryer, CB Albert Lewis