What should the Kansas City Chiefs expect from their rookies in year one?
By Price Carter
Round 4, Pick 133: Jaden Hicks, S
The Chiefs got Dane Brugler's top safety (39 overall prospect) in the class in the fourth round. Hicks will factor into the defense in 2024 by way of Mike Edwards's role being vacated. Steve Spagnuolo's defense has always liked playing several safeties and Hicks is going to be hard to keep off the field. His bigger frame is going to keep him in the slot or near the line of scrimmage.
With Bryan Cook and Chamarri Conner, the Chiefs have lots of flexibility down the field in coverage. Hicks and Justin Reid will likely be seen making plays on screens, in the run, and on tight ends or slot receivers.
Hicks will quickly become a fan favorite, his fire and tone setting tackling are contagious. Similar to Conner look for his role to grow as the season progresses.
Round 5, Pick 159: Hunter Nourzad, IOL
Have no fear! Your Creed Humphrey jersey is still safe to own. Yes, Nourzad has played center but he will likely be viewed as a swing interior offensive lineman for 2024. The Chiefs' only back-up interior player currently is Mike Caliendo, who has done some snapping but you'd prefer a pure center to have that role. If all goes well, Nourzad will have a good camp, make the roster with ease, and play week 18 as the Chiefs rest their starters headed into the playoffs.