NFL Mock Draft Roundup: Who are the Chiefs taking?
By Matt Conner
The Kansas City Chiefs have every reason to believe they're on the right track toward another deep postseason run, so of course, our primary attention remains focused on Week 4, their game against the New York Jets, and the ultimate run toward a second consecutive Super Bowl title. That said, we're also always keeping an eye on the future and that makes us draft hounds on a year-round basis.
With that in mind, let's take a mid-week break and consider what the latest mock drafts have in store for the Chiefs. We'll take a look at a few and give our verdict of each pick. And let's begin with a position that was reportedly one of first-round interest in this year's draft as well.
McKinnley Jackson, DL, Texas A&M
It makes a lot of sense for mock drafts to go this way, with a defensive lineman for the Chiefs given the need for help along the interior. That's what Josh Edwards of CBS Sports does here. Interestingly, it would also be the third consecutive year that the Chiefs would have utilized a pick up front after grabbing Purdue defensive end George Karlaftis in 2022 and Kansas State defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah in 2023.
The Chiefs were rumored to be interested in Michigan defensive tackle Mazi Smith in the first round this last spring before the Dallas Cowboys stayed at No. 26 overall and selected him. Given the uncertainty before Chris Jones returned and the potential free agent departures of Derrick Nnadi and Mike Danna (who plays quite well sliding inside), the unit could use a surge of talent.
At 6'2, 325 lbs., Jackson would immediately look the part as a big body up front. Remember the Chiefs were flirting with the reclamation of Danny Shelton during Super Bowl runs, so there's room for upgrades here. The good news here, and what would make Jackson a potential first-round prospect, is the buzz about his explosiveness off the line for such a large frame. Last year, Jackson had 37 tackles for the Aggies, including 7 for a loss.
Verdict: At this point, it's more about the position than the prospect and we love this kind of investment inside. Even if Chris Jones finds his way back on a long-term deal, the Chiefs need a talent upgrade and further depth. Some fans would be displeased at a third consecutive DL pick but it's smart all the same.