Chiefs' offensive tackle uncertainty puts 5 intriguing 2027 draft prospects in focus

The Kansas City Chiefs' season story has been at offensive tackle, as Josh Simmons has struggled to manage a back injury all season. Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson has filled in well on the blind side, and Jaylon Moore has also played well on the right side of the line. But Moore, dealing with a concussion, has forced the Chiefs to change things up at offensive tackle again.

With Moore hitting free agency, the Chiefs know their offensive tackle room will need an overhaul this offseason. While Kahlil Benson has played well, the Chiefs know that they cannot rely on him and Simmons to man the tackle spots next season.

Offensive tackle is the second-most expensive position in football; finding a quality starter in free agency is difficult. The draft is the best way for teams to rebuild their offensive line, and they should target tackle in the NFL Draft. The 2027 NFL Draft has several strong tackle prospects, and even if they don't fall to the Chiefs, Kansas City could trade up.

So who are some of the players who could be playing in red and gold in 2027?

Lance Heard, Kentucky

My top tackle pick, Heard has dominated for Kentucky this season and has proven to be one of the nation's best all-around players. As a former five-star recruit, Heard has broken out into the player many expected and projects as a 2027 first-round pick. Heard is unlikely to be available when the Chiefs pick, and Kansas City would likely need to trade up to land him. But given how talented he's proven to be, the Chiefs may need to consider it.

Trevor Goosby, Texas

Many in the scouting community have seen Goosby as the top tackle in the class. But a recent knee injury has likely knocked Goosby out for the season, and scouts will be concerned about his health going forward. It seemed unlikely earlier in the year that Goosby could be an option for Kansas City, but now that he is likely done for the year, his stock could take a hit. If the Chiefs believe he's cleared medically, he could be worth a shot.

Elijah Paige, USC

Elijah Paige is another tackle who has had some injury issues in the past. In 2025, he suffered a season-ending knee injury that has raised many concerns among scouts. He also had some back spasms this season that caused him to miss one game earlier in the year. Paige is a star on the field and has looked like one of the nation's best tackle prospects. If he clears his medical issues, the Chiefs would love to grab him in the first round.

Drew Azzopardi, Washington

One of the biggest risers on my offensive-line draft board, Azzopardi has the tools to be a very successful offensive tackle in the NFL. He's a well-rounded tackle who can impact the run and pass game at a high level. Azzopardi has only significant experience at right tackle, so the Chiefs will need to be comfortable with Kahlil Benson going forward.

Samson Okunlola, Miami

The fastest riser on my board, Okunlola was once a top prospect out of high school who took his time and blossomed into a star left tackle for Miami. Last year, Okunlola spent much of the season at guard, but this year he has moved to offensive tackle and has looked like a star. If he declares for the draft, the Chiefs should be interested, especially if he falls into the mid-to-late 20s for a trade-up. 

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