NFL Draft: Will Chiefs Fill Defensive End Spot Early?

By this point in the draft process, most teams have their team needs finalized. But even for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, there are going to be instances where they may just opt to take the best player available when selecting. That could be something to watch for the Chiefs, when it comes to the defensive end spot. That may not be a top three need for Kansas City. Though, it would still not be completely shocking if they addressed that spot early, at least by the end of day two in the draft.

What does the future outlook at defensive end say for the Chiefs? Plus, how could this year’s particular draft class affect their decision making at the position? Let’s kick it off.

Defensive End Outlook For Kansas City

There is still a little bit of long-term uncertainty for the Chiefs at defensive end. But obviously, the re-signing of Mike Danna changed things significantly entering the 2024 NFL Draft. As an underrated piece of the KC defense, it was somewhat surprising to see him not land a solid deal in free agency sooner. But thankfully for Kansas City, he was able to find a contract to return to the Chiefs, and on a three-year term, no less.

With he, George Karlaftis and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, the Chiefs have some physical, youthful pieces at defensive end. And in Steve Spagnuolo‘s defense, Kansas City has the ability to move some of these guys around the line of scrimmage to different spots on the defensive line.

Meanwhile, there is uncertainty with the timeline in Charles Omenihu‘s recovery from a torn ACL. He will be able to return at some point in 2024. But for he and the team, it is a tough spot to be in, as he enters the final year of his contract. With the draft in mind, it would not be a surprise to see the Chiefs add at defensive end, because of his injury. That goes for both the outlook in 2024 and beyond.

Need Vs Value

With those items in mind, you can easily argue that Kansas City is not in dire need of another defensive end. At least right away in 2024. But as the saying goes, you can never have enough pass rushers. And with a defensive mastermind like Spagnuolo, the Chiefs can easily get production from another defensive end early on from this draft.

The other item to watch for, is the depth of this EDGE defender class. It is not as deep as other years. And truly, the drop off of talent is pretty clear, once you get to a certain stage on day two of selections. If Kansas City would like to shore up the depth at that spot, they may attack defensive end somewhat early. Being back-to-back defending champions also afford the Chiefs a bit of a luxury, being able to stay true to their board.

Names To Watch By End Of Day Two

There are a handful of names that could make sense for the Chiefs at defensive end. If you are focusing on names that are more likely to go on day two of the draft, here are five to watch for. Marshawn Kneeland of Western Michigan is the most fascinating, for my money. Outside of the top tier guys, his tools present a tantalizing piece worth betting on. Elsewhere, names like Bralen Trice (Washington) and Mohamed Kamara (Colorado State) offer the size and power that Spagnuolo has coveted. If they look for more quickness and less size, the Chiefs could look at Austin Booker (Kansas) and Gabriel Murphy (UCLA) among the defensive end position.