The Kansas City Chiefs, fresh off their back-to-back Super Bowl victories, are at a pivotal moment as the 2024 NFL Draft approaches. With key positions needing reinforcement and some players facing uncertain futures, the Chiefs are positioned to make strategic moves that could alter the composition of their roster significantly.
Kansas City Chiefs: Cornerback Conundrums and Kelvin Joseph’s Uncertain Future
As the NFL Draft looms, the Chiefs’ decision to trade L’Jarius Sneed to the Tennessee Titans puts them in the market for a cornerback. The team expects Trent McDuffie’s rise to continue, yet depth remains a concern. The Chiefs might look for a new cornerback in the later rounds, where General Manager Brett Veach has previously found value.
NFL DRAFT 2024 📝 @NFL pic.twitter.com/QdR8SSXfNw
— |PAC-MAN|🕹 (@Grant4Anthony) April 23, 2024
Kelvin Joseph, who joined the Chiefs on a reserve/futures contract, could find his spot in jeopardy. Despite his potential, the addition of a new cornerback through the draft might squeeze him out, emphasizing the competitive nature of the NFL and the Chiefs’ ruthless pursuit of maintaining a top-tier roster.
Tight End Transition: Is Irv Smith Jr. on the Outs?
With Travis Kelce getting older and flirtations with retirement circulating, Kansas City might soon be hunting for his successor. The 2024 draft class, rich in tight-end talent, offers the Chiefs a chance to secure their future at the position.
Irv Smith Jr., who joined the Chiefs after a tumultuous season with the Bengals, faces a steep uphill battle. Smith, while talented, has struggled with injuries and consistency, making him vulnerable to being replaced by a younger, perhaps more dynamic draft pick.
Wide Receiver Worries: Could Justyn Ross Be Cut?
The situation with Rashee Rice, facing a likely suspension, underscores the Chiefs’ pressing need at wide receiver. Kansas City is expected to target a wideout early in the draft, which could reshape the entire receiving corps. Players like Marquise Brown and the potential rookie will lead, while Justyn Ross, known for his preseason performances but regular-season invisibility, might find himself out of favor. Ross’s struggles with injuries and off-field issues do him no favors in a competitive environment.
Running Back Reassessment: Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s Rocky Road
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, once a first-round pick, re-signed with the Chiefs on a minimal deal, suggesting his role is increasingly precarious. The Chiefs might look to draft a running back with higher upside, possibly on Day 3. Names like Tyron Tracy and Will Shipley come to mind, who could provide more spark than Edwards-Helaire has recently. Despite a modest dead cap hit, the Chiefs might opt to trade Edwards-Helaire if a suitable draft pick emerges, demonstrating the ever-evolving nature of NFL rosters.
Offensive Line Overhaul: Lucas Niang’s Last Stand?
Protecting star quarterback Patrick Mahomes remains a paramount concern, particularly at the offensive tackle position. The performance of current options like Jawaan Taylor and the departed Donovan Smith has left much to be desired. The draft offers a chance to solidify this critical position with players like Tyler Guyton and Kingsley Suimataia being potential picks. Lucas Niang, who has failed to secure a starting role consistently, might find himself replaced as the Chiefs prioritize Mahomes’ protection.
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the Kansas City Chiefs are clearly poised to make tough decisions that will impact both their immediate and long-term future. Each draft pick could herald significant changes, emphasizing the ever-changing dynamics of the NFL and the importance of strategic planning in maintaining a championship-caliber team.
Source: Fansided
