The Kansas City Chiefs came close to making NFL history last season. Winning three consecutive Super Bowls is no easy feat, and although they fell just short of achieving a three-peat, the team is now shifting its focus to the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Head coach Andy Reid has significant work ahead, especially after some major roster changes.
One of the biggest losses was trading away Joe Thuney, leaving a noticeable hole in the offensive line—a critical area for protecting star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. On the defensive side, the Chiefs also lost several important players during free agency, further emphasizing the need to rebuild and reload in the draft.
The Chiefs enter the 2025 draft with eight total picks and will make their first selection at the 31st overall spot. Let’s explore the prospects they could target to help maintain their championship-contending status:
Round 1, Pick 31: Josh Conerly Jr., OT, Oregon
Kansas City needs help in the trenches after Mahomes was sacked 47 times last season. The team faces a tough choice between boosting the defensive line or securing a long-term solution at left tackle. Conerly Jr. could be that solution. At 6’5″ and 311 pounds, he’s a steady and reliable protector who made 28 starts at left tackle for Oregon. He may not be flashy, but he’s solid and could be a key piece in keeping Mahomes upright.
Round 2, Pick 63: Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss
Tre Harris is a versatile and dynamic wide receiver. Over the last two seasons, he’s been one of college football’s most efficient receivers, offering a mix of size, speed, and physicality. He can line up outside or in the slot and is known for fighting for the ball and contributing as a blocker. The Chiefs’ current receiver group—Hollywood Brown, Xavier Worthy, Rashee Rice, and Travis Kelce—is talented but comes with concerns around injuries, age, and off-field issues. Harris adds much-needed depth and potential for the future.
Round 3, Pick 66: Princely Umanmielen, DE, Ole Miss
Kansas City hoped 2023 pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah would spark their pass rush, but he hasn’t delivered as expected. Umanmielen could change that. After transferring to Ole Miss, he recorded 9.5 sacks and consistently pressured quarterbacks. He combines speed, power, and agility, making him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles. His relentless approach and refined pass-rushing technique could be just what the Chiefs’ defense needs.
Round 3, Pick 95: Cam Skattebo, RB, Arizona State
With Isiah Pacheco’s injury issues and Kareem Hunt aging, the Chiefs’ running game needs a boost. Enter Cam Skattebo, a physical and determined back who had a breakout season in 2024. Known for his toughness and ability to break tackles, he could be a great complement to Pacheco’s speed, giving Kansas City a powerful one-two punch in the backfield.
Round 4, Pick 133: Sai’Vion Jones, EDGE, LSU
Jones is a big-bodied, powerful edge rusher at 6’5” and 280 pounds. Though not the fastest off the snap, his strength and relentless drive make him hard to contain. With a strong broad jump and decent forty time, he brings athleticism to match his size. His fit in the Chiefs’ defense seems natural, as coordinator Steve Spagnuolo favors tough, physical linemen who can disrupt both the run and pass game.
Round 7, Pick 226: Jamon Dumas-Johnson, LB, Kentucky
Once a highly ranked high school player, Dumas-Johnson began his college career at Georgia before transferring to Kentucky. A serious arm injury late in 2023 slowed him down, but he showed resilience by finishing his college career strong. His sophomore stats—70 tackles and four sacks—highlight his potential. If he can return to form, he might be a late-round gem and a valuable addition to the Chiefs’ linebacker group.
Round 7, Pick 251: Luke Lachey, TE, Iowa
With Travis Kelce approaching the end of his career, Kansas City needs to start planning for the future at tight end. Lachey, the son of former All-Pro lineman Jim Lachey, is a smart, tough player who knows how to find space in defenses and contribute in the passing game. Despite a serious leg injury, he’s remained competitive and could be a strong complement to Noah Gray in the tight end room.
Round 7, Pick 257: Shilo Sanders, S, Colorado
Following the departure of safety Justin Reid to the Saints, the Chiefs need help at the position. Shilo Sanders, son of Deion Sanders, is a hard-hitting safety with a nose for the ball. He recorded 170 tackles in two seasons at Colorado and brings a fearless attitude to the field. While he may not be an immediate starter, he’s a solid special teams contributor with upside.
With Patrick Mahomes’ massive contract limiting cap flexibility, the Chiefs must rely on smart drafting and strong player development to stay at the top. This draft presents a critical opportunity for general manager Brett Veach and head coach Andy Reid to address key needs and keep the team in Super Bowl contention. The journey continues on April 24, when the 2025 NFL Draft begins.