The NFL Draft is over, and the Kansas City Chiefs are signing undrafted free agents. As the dust settles on the organization’s efforts over the last three days, it’s easy to conclude that General Manager Brett Veach pitched a gem.
OT Josh Simmons (Ohio State) – If you want a prototypical left tackle to protect your franchise quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, you should select the best left tackle in the draft. If you’re picking near the end of the first round, divert attention, play chess, and do whatever it takes behind the scenes to secure that franchise left tackle.
General Manager Brett Veach executed the pursuit of Simmons flawlessly. Reports indicated before the draft that his injury hadn’t healed and that he wouldn’t be ready until mid-season. This concern affected nearly every NFL team, except for the Chiefs. They thoroughly examined his medical records and were utterly convinced that he’d be ready for training camp.
Had other NFL teams conducted the same due diligence, perhaps Simmons would not be a Chief! He is, and Mahomes should be ecstatic that he finally has a left tackle to protect his back. It’s been a struggle since Eric Fisher was cut four years ago. Simmons is a generational left tackle, and the Chiefs turned the outside noise surrounding him into an advantage. (Grade A+)
DT Omarr Norman-Lott (Tennessee) – If you want a disruptor at defensive tackle, then Norman-Lott is your guy. The Chiefs’ defensive line has struggled over the last two years to generate a push up front that allows their sack eaters to reach opposing quarterbacks. Norman-Lott will command double teams, which should free Chris Jones to register double-digit sacks this year. He’ll have two excellent mentors in Mike Pennell and Jerry Tillery to learn from, ensuring that his transition into a larger defensive role will be successful. (Grade A-)
Edge Ashton Gillette (Louisville) – You can never have enough pass rushers, and the Chiefs added one of the best in this draft. Ashton Gillette has a relentless motor and the ability to wreak havoc in the backfield. Though he might have been taken a bit early, the Chiefs feel his skill set is a perfect fit for their defense. With Mike Danna, George Karlaftis, and Charles Omenihu, Gillette will become part of the pass rush crew. For a comparison, consider Jared Allen. (Grade B+)
CB Nohl Williams (California) – If you seek a prototypical Steve Spagnuolo cornerback, Nohl Williams is the right choice. He led the FCS in interceptions, including a pick-six against Cam Ward, the number one pick. He displays better closing speed than some players drafted higher, and he’s an elite ball hawk. For an old-school comparison, think Albert Lewis; for a more recent one, think Bashaud Breeland. He will play outside for the Chiefs, allowing Trent McDuffie to return to the slot. (Grade A)
WR Jalen Royals (Utah State) – This is the ideal wide receiver for Patrick Mahomes to develop into a superstar. Royals can catch an ordinary pass and exploit the seams for long gains. He led the NCAA in 50-yard (plus plays) last season, and that factor alone should excite Chiefs fans. Royals received a second-round grade, and I contend he was the third-best receiver in this draft. He, Rashee Rice, and Xavier Worthy will form an unstoppable trio for Mahomes. (Grade A+)
LB Jeffrey Bassa (Oregon) – I understand why the Chiefs drafted Bassa. He played four years for the Ducks. In 2024, he was the quarterback of the defense and demonstrated incredible skill moving side to side to reach the ball carrier. He is strong in pass coverage, an area where the Chiefs struggled last season, so his addition makes a lot of sense. The Chiefs traded up to acquire him, sending a 2026 fourth-round pick to the Patriots, which suggests they believed he could eventually become a starter. (Grade B)
RB Brashard Smith (SMU) – My favorite draft pick, besides Simmons, is the Mustang speed merchant that the Chiefs traded up to acquire in round seven. Smith transformed from a wide receiver at Miami into a star running back at SMU in 2024. He recorded nearly two thousand all-purpose yards last season and can do it all with the ball in his hands. With a fourth-round grade, the fact that Veach sent a pair of late-round picks, once again, to the Patriots to add him to his roster was the steal of the second day. Andy Reid finally has his next three-down Jamaal Charles, which should frighten the AFC! (Grade A+++)
