Chiefs’ NFL Draft plans change after surprising Patrick Mahomes request

Kansas City’s front office faces a tough choice between a rising star tackle and a veteran wideout

Chiefs Eye WR Upgrade-But What Does That Mean for Their First-Round...

Chiefs Eye WR Upgrade-But What Does That Mean for Their First-Round Pick?(AP Photo/Abbie Parr)LAPRESSE

TheKansas City Chiefs are still the gold standard in the NFL, despite falling short in their latest Super Bowlbid. Three titles in six years, three straight Super Bowl appearances-there’s no arguing with that kind of success. But if there’s one thing clear from last season, it’s that Patrick Mahomes needs more help.

Kansas City’s front office knows it, too. That’s why their draft strategy has centered on boosting the offensive line, and Oregon tackle Josh Conerly Jr. has been a name that keeps popping up in mock drafts. His athleticism, raw power, and ability to keep up with Mahomes’ off-script plays make him an ideal fit for Andy Reid’s system. But after the combine, something isn’t adding up.

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A draft pick in question

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NFL insider Zack Eisen pointed out a potential red flag: despite Conerly’s hype, most experts aren’t convinced he’s a surefire first-round pick. “Every post-combine mock I’ve seen has Josh Conerly Jr. at 31. I think it’s an easy need fit for folks to slot him there, but it’s another developmental tackle that likely won’t be ready to start Week 1,” Eisen shared.

That’s not what Mahomes and the Chiefs need right now. With Rashee Rice recovering from an ACL tear and Marquise Brown heading into free agency, Kansas City’s receiving corps is a giant question mark. Which is why rumors are swirling that the Chiefs may be looking at a different kind of solution: a star wide receiver.

Chiefs linked to Stefon Diggs

ESPN’s Aaron Schatz recently predicted that the Chiefs could land Stefon Diggs in free agency. Diggs, who was on pace for yet another 1,000-yard season before suffering an ACL injury, would give Mahomes the kind of elite playmaker he lacked last year.

“With a number of free-agent wide receivers ready to depart, the Chiefs need a veteran who can play on the outside opposite Xavier Worthy after Rashee Rice returns to the slot,”Schatz wrote.

It’s a move that makes sense. Diggs is a proven game-changer, and Mahomes thrives when he has reliable weapons who can stretch the field. But if the Chiefs sign Diggs, it would almost certainly change how they approach the draft.

What’s next for the Chiefs?

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If Diggs (or another top-tier receiver) lands in Kansas City, then the urgency to draft a wide receiver disappears-meaning the Chiefs could pivot to other positions. That could be good news for Conerly Jr., but only if Kansas City still believes he’s their guy at No. 31. If not, they could shift their focus to another lineman, or even a defensive piece.

The Chiefs are at a crossroads. Do they bet on the development of a rookie tackle? Or do they double down on weapons for Mahomes? Free agency will likely provide the answer, and if Diggs signs with Kansas City, the Chiefs’ draft board could look completely different by the time they’re on the clock.