Free agency has really slowed down following the initial waves, and teams are full steam ahead focused on the 2025 NFL Draft. The draft is important for every team, but more so for rebuilding franchises who need to change their fortunes with higher picks. It’s easier to draft earlier, which makes Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach’s job harder than most.
The Chiefs haven’t had a pick higher than No. 21 since 2017, back when they traded up 17 spots to get Patrick Mahomes. They also traded up in 2022 to get Trent McDuffie at 21st overall. The team has had to acclimate to picking late in the first round, or not having a first round pick at all. It has obviously worked out for them, as it has meant they’ve made five Super Bowls and won three of them in that span. For 2025, they will once again be picking late, as they’re slotted into selection No. 31.
Chiefs only have 12-13 first round grades on players in 2025 NFL Draft
Those expecting the front office to move up and get a playmaker before their pick should temper all expectations. That’s because Veach came out on Thursday and said he’s not expecting a trade-up to happen this year. Veach mentions the team only having 12-13 players with first round grades. He also made a surprising admission about the Chiefs’ roster, practically saying they have a lot of holes to fill.
Because of the state of the roster, Veach doesn’t foresee them being overly aggressive in the draft. He feels that they need as many picks as they can get. In essence, that would mean they might look to trade back at some points in the draft.
Given that the front office feels they need help at offensive line, defensive line, wide receiver and the secondary, there’s no guessing how Veach will attack the first round and beyond. But it’s clear the team feels it’s not equipped for another Super Bowl run at the moment. There are needs that must be addressed first.
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