The Kansas City Chiefs started the 2026 season blazing hot and came onto the scene looking like one of the best teams in the NFL. But after a 5-0 start, they hit a roadblock and dropped their last two games to the Seahawks and Broncos. Now, Brett Veach and the rest of the Chiefs staff need to make changes, and Kansas City may need to be aggressive at the trade deadline, which is just a week away.
Kansas City has plenty to offer, as they are projected to hold 10 picks in the 2027 NFL Draft. Coming into this season, 2027 draft picks came at a premium, as many felt the 2027 draft could be one of the best in recent memory. But with the chaotic environment across college football, many top prospects have fallen in draft value, making 2027 draft picks less valuable.
The #Chiefs appear to be really only looking at WR before the deadline. They've been looking and will continue to have conversations and I get the sense things will pick up and a move is more likely than not.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) November 2, 2026
With the changing landscape of the 2027 NFL Draft and Kansas City's recent struggles, Brett Veach and the Chiefs staff cannot afford to be stingy with their draft capital. Kansas City has clear needs, and this offseason will free up cap space to extend players acquired in trades. Most analysts expect the 2027 draft to have good depth late but be disappointing at the top. With that in mind, the Chiefs should get aggressive and move some of their picks at the deadline to land players who can contribute now and over the next 2–3 years.
Where do the Chiefs stand with trade value
As of today, the Chiefs are projected to hold four top-100 picks and six Day 3 picks. With clear needs at several positions, mainly including wide receiver, safety, and offensive tackle, the Chiefs will have chances to make a play for several top players over the next week.
Since Tyreek Hill's departure, the Chiefs have had only one pass catcher (Travis Kelce in 2022) go for over 1,000 yards. Mahomes has had 10 different starting left tackles since 2023, and this year he'll have his first 1,000-yard rusher since entering the NFL almost a decade ago. The Chiefs cannot afford to wait around and hope they hit on a draft pick anymore, and at this year's deadline, Brett Veach has to push the chips in.
How should they attack the deadline?
Several productive receivers like Jerry Jeudy and Brian Thomas Jr. have been tagged as potential trade targets, and it is clear the Chiefs have what it takes to land either or both of them. Wide receiver is Kansas City's top need, and landing a go-to guy for Patrick Mahomes should be a top priority.
What better way to silence the critics?
— Daniel Griffis (@DanDGriffis) November 1, 2026
Brian Thomas Jr - TOUCHDOWN!!! pic.twitter.com/Z6UXnTCl1R
Brian Thomas Jr. is likely the best receiver on the market and has been labeled expensive, as the Jaguars are looking to hold out for the right value. Most think the Jaguars are holding out for a Day 2 pick, and the Chiefs should easily meet their needs at the deadline. The Chiefs currently hold two third-round picks and, if needed, should be able to work out a deal involving their second-round pick as well, potentially looking to get a late pick back in return.
Other pass catchers like Jerry Jeudy or Rashod Bateman could be dealt for an early Day 3 pick or even one of the Chiefs' third-round picks. The Chiefs could also target veteran receivers like Stefon Diggs or Chris Godwin, who could add value in Kansas City. Each of these players would likely serve as the top wide receiver in the Chiefs' offense, something they likely will not find through the draft.
Alabama answers with a 62-yard TD to Jerry Jeudy! pic.twitter.com/caFPJ5cNya
— ESPN (@espn) January 8, 2019
Even at offensive tackle, guys like Walker Little or Dylan Cook could provide value on the Chiefs' offensive line, both this year and down the line.
Disclaimer: Kansas City should stay away from any trades that involve multiple first-round picks for someone like Garrett Wilson.
The Chiefs need to prioritize winning now
Adding a receiver is the number one priority, but if the Chiefs find other talented players who can be acquired for the right value, Kansas City cannot afford to be stingy. In a year when the Chiefs hold 10 picks in a draft that may not be as impactful as previous years, it is important that the Chiefs take advantage of solutions that are right in front of them.
It can be risky to "mortgage your future," in a manner of speaking, and many fans may worry that the Chiefs need to hold onto their future investments. But the message should be clear from Brett Veach and the front office: We have a great run game, a strong defense, and the best quarterback to ever play the game. It is time to push the chips in to win this year and get Patrick Mahomes the help he needs moving forward.
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