The Kansas City Chiefs have already made a couple of splash moves this offseason, trading away Trent McDuffie and signing Kenneth Walker III in free agency. General manager Brett Veach can put on the final act of his roster revamp on Thursday night, when the Chiefs are on the clock in the NFL Draft.
While it's impossible to know exactly who Kansas City will select, there are hints to be found if you're looking. From mock drafts to official visits, there has been plenty of "smoke" around the Chiefs' pick at No. 9 overall.
And where there's smoke, there's fire.
Who will the Chiefs draft at No. 9?
Ohio State WR Carnell Tate: Steady burn
Despite their recent investments at the position, the Chiefs could still use a true outside receiver to complete their passing game. Carnell Tate is generally considered the best pass catcher in the draft, and if he's on the board, Veach will likely consider taking him. He was one of just two first-round-caliber receivers the Chiefs brought in for a 30 visit.
Tate is the "X" receiver Andy Reid's offense has been missing. He can run a full route tree and has the ball skills to command a significant target share in the NFL. While he may be gone before the ninth pick, the Ohio State wideout would be an incredible selection for Kansas City.
Ohio State S Caleb Downs: Heating up
The Athletic's Dane Brugler dropped his seven-round mock the week before the draft, and he had the Chiefs taking Caleb Downs at No. 9. The do-it-all safety could slot into multiple positions in Steve Spagnuolo's defense.
While Reid wasn't around when the Chiefs drafted Eric Berry, he knows the impact of having a top-ten pick at safety. Despite the lack of positional value, the Chiefs should be thrilled with Downs at the ninth pick.
Miami EDGE Reuben Bain Jr.: Blazing
There's an undeniable amount of smoke surrounding the Chiefs' connection with Reuben Bain. They brought him in for a 30 visit, and he's been the pick at No. 9 for multiple plugged-in mock drafters.
Of course, arm length has been the primary talking point regarding the Miami edge rusher. His arms are shorter than almost any prospect at his position in draft history, but his tape shows that he can overcome the deficit. Don't be surprised if Bain ends up being the Chiefs' selection in the top ten.
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