How much should the Chiefs prioritize each position in the 2024 NFL Draft?

Defensive End

The Chiefs have spent a first-round pick on an edge rusher in each of the past two drafts (George Karlaftis and Felix Anudike-Uzomah), so I don't think they'll triple-dip at the position in the first round. The re-signing of Mike Danna to a multi-year contract also ensures the position will have stability in 2024.

Even though Charles Omenihu is expected to miss the first half of the regular season due to a torn ACL, defensive end isn't a critical need for them. If the right player slides on day two, I don't think drafting another outside pass-rusher would be egregious, but there are other positions that could use more attention.

The Verdict: Low

Defensive Tackle

Stone Cold Chris Jones is back, but the rest of the defensive tackle group behind him is underwhelming. Other than Jones, K.C. lacks a quality pass-rusher and their run stuffers aren't very stout, though Mike Pennel had a strong performance in Super Bowl LVIII.

Kansas City is one injury to Chris Jones away from having one of the worst interior defensive lines in the NFL. The Chiefs would be playing with fire if they didn't add fresh blood in the draft. One of the top defensive tackles (Byron Murphy of Texas and Jer'Zhan Newton of Illinois) may fall into the 20s.

Although it can be argued that tackle and wide receiver are more pressing needs, I wouldn't blame Brett Veach for trading up to grab either Murphy or Newton, if at least one of them falls into the mid-20s.

The Verdict: High

Linebacker

One of the most underrated position groups on the Kansas City Chiefs last season was their linebacking core. Even though Willie Gay is gone, the depth chart is still looking strong for Kansas City.

Although linebacker isn't a critical need for this team, they have shown their willingness to spend day two picks on the position. Willie Gay, Nick Bolton, and Leo Chenal were all second or third-round picks, so it shouldn't surprise anyone to see them go down this well again. Even though there will be a handful of solid linebacking options available on day two, the team should opt to use their resources more wisely.

The Verdict: Low

Let's finish with a closer look at the secondary and more.