Fresh off a Super Bowl victory, the Kansas City Chiefs entered the 2024 NFL Draft with strategic focus, aiming to replenish their roster and build on their championship success. The Chiefs managed their draft picks shrewdly, addressing key areas to enhance both their offensive firepower and defensive depth. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their selections:
Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas – Round 1, Pick 28 (from Bills)
The Chiefs kicked off their draft by selecting Xavier Worthy, the fastest player at this year’s combine, with a record 4.21-second 40-yard dash. Worthy is expected to fill the void left by departing deep threats Mecole Hardman and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. His impressive collegiate performance at Texas, boasting an average of 66 catches and over 900 yards per season, suggests he will be a vital addition to the Chiefs’ receiving corps alongside Hollywood Brown.
Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU – Round 2, Pick 63 (from 49ers)
Kansas City chose Kingsley Suamataia in the second round, a versatile lineman capable of playing left tackle-a position left open with Donovan Smith unsigned. Suamataia could also provide a valuable swing option if right tackle Jawaan Taylor continues to struggle.
Jared Wiley, TE, TCU – Round 4, Pick 131
In the fourth round, the Chiefs added Jared Wiley, a tight end from TCU known for his impressive 4.6 speed in the 40-yard dash and reliable hands. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 249 pounds, Wiley’s physical attributes and minimal drop rate make him a promising addition for rotational tight end duties and a potential future contributor to the team’s offensive schemes.
Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State – Round 4, Pick 133 (compensatory selection from Bills)
Just two picks later, Kansas City secured Jaden Hicks, a highly-regarded safety from Washington State. Known for his solid size and exceptional game tape, Hicks is expected to fit well into any defensive scheme and develop into a starting safety under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
Hunter Nourzad, C, Penn State – Round 5, Pick 159 (from Cowboys)
With their fifth-round pick, the Chiefs drafted Hunter Nourzad, an interior lineman from Penn State. Nourzad’s versatility and experience across multiple positions on the offensive line make him a valuable asset for Kansas City, potentially backing up all three interior spots.
Kamal Hadden, CB, Tennessee – Round 6, Pick 211 (compensatory selection from 49ers)
Kansas City added depth to their secondary by selecting Kamal Hadden, a cornerback from Tennessee, in the sixth round. Despite lacking top-end speed, Hadden’s coverage skills and ball production have been highly rated, making him a suitable candidate for zone coverage schemes.
C.J. Hanson, G, Holy Cross – Round 7, Pick 248 (from Bills)
In the final round, the Chiefs picked C.J. Hanson, a guard from Holy Cross. With 38 college starts under his belt, Hanson’s quickness in the run game could be an asset. However, he will need to strengthen his pass protection skills to contend with NFL-level competition.
The Kansas City Chiefs‘ approach to the 2024 draft reflects a blend of immediate impact players and developmental prospects, aiming to sustain their championship-level performance while preparing for future challenges.
