NFL Draft: 5 players Chiefs should draft in first round

The Chiefs need to get Patrick Mahomes more help via the NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

The Chiefs have plenty of star power on their roster, but they need to add another quality starter in Round 1 of this year’s NFL Draft. 

Like most Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs were hit hard by a number of departures in free agency this offseason. That’s why it’s imperative for Kansas City to land an impact starter in Round 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Patrick Mahomes is a genius at the quarterback position but the organization needs to rebuild his wide receiver corps. JuJu Smith-Schuster and Mecole Hardman exited town for more lucrative pastures this offseason. The Chiefs will take a strong look at wide receivers capable of making an instant impact at the bottom of Round 1.

The team could also look to fortify their options in the trenches of both sides of the line. Jawaan Taylor was brought in to be the team’s new starting left tackle, but Lucas Niang is a question mark on the right side. Finding another edge rusher will also be a consideration for GM Brett Veach. Adding Charles Omenihu in free agency was a nice acquisition, but this defense can never have enough edge players. The first prospect on this list might be a project but does have star upside.

Chiefs first-round draft targets: 5. Keion White

The former Georgia Tech star isn’t going to enter the pros as a finished product, but there’s a lot of talent for a pro coaching staff to work with. The Chiefs are a team that could take him with the No. 31 overall pick and wait on him to reach his full potential.

Kansas City has stocked up in recent years on power edge rushers, but White would give them more speed on the outside. He needs to refine his pass-rushing technique, but he’s got quality bend and twitch. He’s the sort of prospect who could turn into a real bargain if things break right. He would give the Chiefs solid value at the end of Day One.