Chiefs' Defense: Rebuilding for 2026 Draft

0:00It's March 31st. You're listening to Kansas News today, AI-powered local news. The Kansas City Chiefs defense took a hit last season, dropping in rankings and showing some age. Now heading into the 2026 NFL draft, General Manager Brett Veach faces real pressure to rebuild after key off-season losses and modest. Free agent ads. In the secondary, they traded Trent McDuffy to the Rams for picks including number 29, while Jalen Watson, Brian Cook, and Joshua Williams, all left in free agency. They countered by signing safety a low-heed Gilman to a three-year deal worth $24,750,000 with $15,000,000. Guaranteed plus cornerback, Cater Co-Hoo for one year. Third-rounder Noel Williams steps up as a starter, but expect multiple draft corners come April. That week pass rush last year, only 33 sacks, 26th in the league, left the secondary exposed on third downs. They added defensive tackle Kyra's Tonga on a three-year, $21 million packed for run

1:04support, but no big edge threat yet. With Chris Jones turning 32 soon, both sides need rush help, maybe grabbing one at pick number nine. Minebacker took another blow when Leo Chanel bolted to Washington, leaving Nick Bolton and Drew Tranquil as the core. Solid starters, but middle-round draft picks could deepen that group fast. Each hold solid ammo, like those trade picks, to target edge rushers early, and feel gaps across all levels, setting up a bounce back defense for 2026.