As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, a critical need has emerged: protecting superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs face a pivotal offseason following the departure of Joe Thuney, who played a vital role as a guard before moving to tackle. The team has experimented with various players in the left tackle position, but the uncertainty remains. With the addition of an offensive lineman from San Francisco, there is hope for stability, yet the urgency to bolster the offensive line remains paramount.

In addition to offensive line concerns, the Chiefs must address their secondary. The recent Super Bowl highlighted vulnerabilities in their defense, particularly against the Philadelphia Eagles’ relentless pass rush. The absence of key players like L’Jarius Sneed and Justin Reid was felt, as the team struggled to execute their aggressive defensive strategy. Acquiring a cornerback in the draft could provide the Chiefs with the depth and reliability needed to fortify their defense, allowing coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to unleash his full game plan.

Looking ahead, the Chiefs must also consider the future of their roster. With cornerstone players like Travis Kelce and Chris Jones nearing the end of their prime, the franchise needs to plan for their eventual successors. Kelce, a dynamic tight end, has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ offensive success, and finding a comparable talent could be critical. The team may not need an immediate replacement, but securing a tight end who can contribute in the long term is essential.

As the draft approaches, the Chiefs face the dual challenge of enhancing their offensive line and shoring up their secondary while also laying the groundwork for future roster transitions. With Mahomes at the helm, the Chiefs remain competitive, but they must ensure they provide him with the protection and support necessary to maintain their championship aspirations.