Kansas City Chiefs Gamble on EDGE and Wide Receiver Could SHOCK the Entire NFL
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This episode of the Locked On Chiefs podcast dives into the Kansas City Chiefs' most likely draft strategies for the upcoming NFL Draft, focusing on two high-impact scenarios. Host Ross Jackson is joined by Jesse Newell from The Athletic to analyze the team's potential moves at the No. 9 pick. The discussion centers on the possibility of the Chiefs selecting either a top-tier edge rusher like TJ Parker or a high-upside wide receiver such as Carnell Tate or Tyson, with Ruben Bain emerging as a strong fit for the defense due to his size, length, and production. The hosts debate whether the Chiefs will prioritize need, fit, or value, with a strong emphasis on how their defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s preferences shape their evaluation. A key takeaway is the team’s flexibility—trading up or down based on board movement—and the potential for a 'perfect' draft board sequence: receiver, edge rusher, then defensive tackle. Despite uncertainty, the consensus leans toward the Chiefs targeting either a receiver or edge rusher at No. 9, with a preference for a player who fits their system rather than chasing the highest-rated prospect. The episode also features two sponsor segments: Rougie, offering a performance-enhancing mint for confidence, and Rocket Money, a personal finance app that helps users track and cancel unwanted subscriptions. The hosts emphasize the importance of preparation and control—both on and off the field—mirroring the Chiefs' strategic approach to the draft. Overall, the tone is optimistic and analytical, reflecting excitement around the draft’s potential to reshape the Chiefs’ roster. The episode underscores the team’s long-term planning, trust in their scouting staff, and willingness to adapt to the unpredictable nature of the draft process.
The Chiefs are likely to target either a wide receiver or edge rusher with their No. 9 pick, prioritizing fit over raw draft stock.
TJ Parker is highlighted as the ideal edge rusher fit for Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive scheme due to length, power, and versatility.
Ruben Bain is a strong candidate if the Chiefs stay at No. 9, despite some concerns about his fit with the defense’s coverage schemes.
The Chiefs may trade back to preserve draft capital while still landing a high-value player, showing flexibility in their approach.
A 'perfect' draft sequence would be: receiver at 9, edge rusher at 29, and defensive tackle at 40—maximizing system fit and value.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Welcome & Club Announcement
Ross Jackson introduces the Locked On Chiefs podcast and promotes the Everydayer Club, an ad-free subscription service with fan community access.
Chiefs' Draft Strategy: The Edge Rusher Debate
“The guy that fits all of those things best in this draft class is TJ Parker. And it's great that you hit on it because I've been banging the bell for him for quite a while.”
Ruben Bain & Defensive Fit
“This doesn't fit with a Steve Spagnuolo defense. It doesn't fit with potentially what his perfect fit is.”
Wide Receiver Dilemma: Boston vs. Tate vs. Tyson
“I could definitely see him helping in that way and giving Mahomes a different option than what he has right now.”
Final Prediction & Draft Flexibility
The episode concludes with a prediction that the Chiefs will likely pick either a receiver or edge rusher at No. 9, emphasizing flexibility and long-term planning over immediate panic.
“The guy that fits all of those things best in this draft class is TJ Parker. And it's great that you hit on it because I've been banging the bell for him for quite a while.”
“I would be stunned at this point if their number nine pick is not receiver or edge rusher.”
“This doesn't fit with a Steve Spagnuolo defense. It doesn't fit with potentially what his perfect fit is.”
Host
Guest
Kansas City Chiefs
other
Jesse Newell
person
Steve Spagnuolo
person
Brett Veach
person
Ross Jackson
person
Ruben Bain
person
The Athletic
organization
Patrick Mahomes
person
TJ Parker
person
Andy Reid
person
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