7-round mock draft features blockbuster Chiefs trade to get their next playmaker
By Price Carter
Round 5, Pick 158: Jordan Jefferson, DT, LSU
Jordan Jefferson is a 6'2", 313 lb. run stuffer from LSU. He has a nice motor and an explosive first step. He's not a pass rusher by any means, but he has all the needed tools to replace Derrick Nnadi and to help with the interior of the line.
A fifth-year senior, Jefferson transferred to LSU after having a big season at West Virginia. He's not shown consistent enough ability to shed double teams or penetrate gaps as a pass rusher, but with some development, he could be a starting 3-tech.
The Chiefs have a large need for interior defensive linemen, and they will likely need to take several swings at the position. Even with Chris Jones locked up for the rest of his career, the Chiefs need bodies.
Round 5, Pick 172: AJ Barner, TE, Michigan
AJ Barner transferred to Michigan in 2023 to win a championship. One of the best blocking tight ends in the class, he has an instant path to playing time in an NFL offense. With the run-heavy nature of the Michigan offense, it's difficult to get a full read on what Barner can do as a receiver, but he's an elite athlete who has delivered in the passing game when called upon.
Barner is a youner more athletic Blake Bell. He raises the floor of 3 tight end sets and could step in for Noah Gray in 2025 if he's not retained. The Chiefs struggled passing and running out of 13 personnel most of the season.