The Kansas City Chiefs continue their efforts to rebuild their defense. On Thursday, they grabbed a premier cornerback and defensive tackle; now the team selects Oklahoma Edge Rusher R Mason Thomas. He’s an elite pass rusher who will bring some intensity to the defensive line.
It’s clear that Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach continues his draft efforts to reshape his defense. After taking Cornerback Mansoor Delane and Defensive Tackle, Peter Woods, the Chiefs drafted Oklahoma Edge, R Mason Thomas. He’s a high-motor pass-rusher who, despite being undersized, is relentless in creating havoc and rushing opposing quarterbacks.
Last season, the Chiefs extended the contract for George Karlaftis and drafted Louisville Edge Rusher Ashton Gillette. Both struggled last season, but the addition of Thomas should create some big-time competition. Ultimately, this is the replacement for Mike Danna.
The Chiefs had hoped to land Washington Wide Receiver, David Boston, but he was taken one pick ahead of the 40th pick by the Cleveland Browns. Still, with rumors suggesting Tyreek Hill could return to the Chiefs in June, the need for a wide receiver isn’t as great.
Thomas will remind Chiefs fans of the late Derrick Thomas and Justin Houston. That’s pretty big cleats to fill, but his bend-ability on the edge can offset mammoth offensive linemen. He doesn’t have to start right away, and he’ll have an NFL learning curve, but there’s a lot to work with in Mason.
Both Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and Defensive Line Coach Joe Cullen inherit another defensive player who can make an impact in 2026.
As I stated before the draft, Kansas City needed four starters out of their draft picks, and they are well on their way to doing just that. If you watched the Chiefs Blitz Live Draft show, Hense Todd, our producer, had R Mason Thomas as one of his Golden Jacket players. He’s a perfect fit for the Chiefs.
Kansas City won’t select again until Saturday. They’ll have four picks Saturday, and perhaps they address safety, tight end, or safety on the final day of the draft.
