Chiefs GM Predicts 'A Lot of Trades' amid 2026 NFL Draft Rumors, 'Should Be an Entertaining Night'
Context:
Chiefs general manager Brett Veach expects a blockbuster first round with substantial trading next week, as Kansas City holds the No. 9 and No. 29 overall picks after a surprising 6-11 season that ended the team’s playoff streak. The presence of multiple first-round selections among several teams, including the Jets, Browns, Dolphins and Cowboys, creates ample movement and potential up-moves into the top five. Veach noted the night should be entertaining, with teams likely to trade into or out of premium slots as they chase players at need positions such as pass-rusher, wide receiver, cornerback or offensive tackle. Analysts have various theories on how the board could unfold, keeping the Chiefs in play for strategic swaps or stand-pat options. The immediate outlook points to a dynamic market with possible top-tier acquisitions or targeted fits for KC’s rebuilding push.
Dive Deeper:
Kansas City enters the 2026 draft with the No. 9 and No. 29 overall picks, a result of a 6-11 season that ended the Chiefs' playoff streak for the first time since 2014.
The club previously acquired the 29th pick in a trade that sent cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams, highlighting KC's willingness to leverage its assets in pursuit of impact players.
Veach described the first night as likely to feature 'a lot of trades,' signaling a broader market where teams with multiple first-round picks, including the Chiefs, Jets, Browns, Dolphins and Cowboys, have the ammo to move.
The MMQB’s Albert Breer reports several teams — the Cardinals, Titans, Giants, Browns and Commanders — have explored trading down, creating opportunities for movement into earlier slots if teams covet specific prospects.
If KC identifies a target at a key need area—edge/rush, receiver, cornerback or tackle—the Nos. 9 and 29 picks could be packaged to climb into the top five for a preferred player.
A BR NFL Scouting Department mock draft suggested the Chiefs might stand pat at Nos. 9 and 29, potentially selecting Rueben Bain Jr. (pass-rusher) and Max Iheanachor (offensive tackle) rather than pursuing multiple trades.