Last year, I made my best effort in predicting the composition of the 2023 NFL Draft class for the Chiefs, focusing on the roles these rookies would play. This year, I’m revisiting this task for the upcoming 2024 draft class. With the Chiefs having officially utilized __ choices in the 2024 NFL Draft, it’s time to forecast their potential contributions as first-year players.

Round 1, Pick 28: Dynamic Wide Receiver Xavier Worthy

Looking back at Mecole Hardman’s impactful rookie season provides valuable insights into what to expect from Xavier Worthy. Hardman made significant contributions primarily through manufactured touches and deep vertical routes, a skill set that Worthy is expected to excel in even more. Worthy brings a greater variety of skills to the table, but as he transitions to the professional level, Coach Andy Reid is likely to take a measured approach in integrating him into the game plan.

With Hollywood Brown already in the mix, the Chiefs can afford to develop Worthy gradually, unlike their approach with Rashee Rice. Initially, Worthy will predominantly play in the slot and participate in specific packages, but his exceptional speed and dynamic playmaking ability suggest he will make an immediate impact. As the season progresses, it is hoped that he will master more of the playbook and expand his contributions. Considering Brown’s history of injuries, Worthy’s presence ensures that the Chiefs can continue to stretch the field even if Brown is sidelined.

Round 2, Pick 63: Offensive Tackle Kingsley Suamataia – A Future Star

The specific role of Kingsley Suamataia hinges on whether the Chiefs opt to sign a veteran left tackle. If they choose to retain Donovan Smith or bring in another seasoned player, Suamataia will have the opportunity to redshirt and learn under the guidance of Andy Heck. If I were in charge of the Chiefs, that would be my preferred strategy. While I have high hopes for Suamataia in the long run, I would be apprehensive about thrusting him into a starting role immediately.

Should the Chiefs decide against signing a veteran, it would indicate a strong belief in Suamataia or Wanya Morris. Both would compete for the left tackle position. If Suamataia can improve on his current technical weaknesses and grasp the playbook effectively, I believe he possesses more talent than Morris, potentially earning the starting job. Conversely, if Morris secures the position, he would serve as the backup, allowing Suamataia to gain valuable experience in preparation for future seasons. Regardless, the situation with Suamataia offers promising outcomes, whether it leads to immediate contributions or valuable learning opportunities for the 2025 season.

Round 4, Pick 131: Versatile Tight End Jared Wiley

Jared Wiley’s role within the Chiefs’ offensive structure is clear-cut, as his skill set aligns perfectly with the team’s pressing need for an inline (Y) tight end. Prior to selecting Wiley, the Chiefs lacked this essential component on their roster. While he has room for improvement as a blocker, his potential is evident from his film. He displays intelligence in blocking schemes and possesses impressive length, enabling him to stretch the field and effectively run intermediate routes as a receiver.

In the 2022 season, one key factor behind the Chiefs’ success in their 13 personnel packages was Jody Fortson’s ability to make plays downfield. However, after his injury last season, that responsibility fell to Blake Bell, who proved to be an ineffective target. This greatly hindered the Chiefs’ 13 personnel performance. With Wiley on board, the expectation is that he can quickly become a significant receiving option, helping to restore the offensive numbers seen in 2022. I believe he has the capability to exceed Bell’s production swiftly.

Round 4, Pick 133: Talented Safety Jaden Hicks

Jaden Hicks stood out to me as my top-rated safety in this draft class, though I am eager to see how the Chiefs plan to utilize him in 2024. Hicks possesses a skill set that closely resembles the role currently filled by Justin Reid. He shines in man coverage against tight ends and utilizes his range effectively in open field situations. A solid tackler, Hicks brings both ball skills and the physicality needed to excel in the slot. Although, like Reid, his agility may limit his deep coverage responsibilities, his explosiveness and athleticism make him particularly effective near the line of scrimmage.

In 2024, with Reid, Cook, and Charmarri Connor already in the fold, Hicks will likely be competing for a third safety role at best. While he may challenge Connor for that spot, I was impressed enough with Connor’s performance to give him the opportunity. Hicks may also overlap with Reid’s role on the team. However, as Reid is under contract for just one more year, Hicks could serve as an ideal redshirt candidate, preparing for a more significant role in 2025. For the upcoming season, I envision special teams and limited snaps as his primary contributions.

Round 5, Pick 159: Reliable Center Hunter Nourzad

Prior to this draft weekend, the Chiefs maintained eight offensive linemen on their roster, highlighting a pressing need for depth, particularly on the interior line. Hunter Nourzad addresses this need effectively. Having played center in 2023, he also possesses guard experience from his time at Penn State in 2022. Nourzad has the potential to serve as a long-term replacement for Nick Allegretti, acting as a valuable swing piece on the interior line. Given the current roster situation, he is almost guaranteed to make the team.

Round 6, Pick 211: Promising Cornerback Kamal Hadden

Kamal Hadden primarily played on the outside during his time at Tennessee, but his lack of length might necessitate a transition to the slot in the NFL. Currently, the Chiefs lack a backup slot option for Trent McDuffie, leaving room for competition among several players. Nazeeh Johnson appears capable of slot duties, and with Hicks now added to the roster, there’s a chance Charmarri Connor could receive more opportunities in those areas.

For Hadden, excelling on special teams will be crucial. If he makes the roster, his impact will be felt most significantly in that capacity. He will compete against Nic Jones, Johnson, and others for those crucial fringe roster spots.

Round 7, Pick 248: Depth Guard C.J. Hanson

Even after selecting Nourzad, the Chiefs still needed to bolster their depth on the offensive line. C.J. Hanson steps in to fulfill that requirement. With several years of experience at right guard, there’s potential for the Chiefs to view him as a long-term replacement for Trey Smith. For the immediate future, he provides valuable depth at the guard position. Like Nourzad, I would be surprised if Hanson does not make the final roster, especially given the current thinness of the Chiefs’ offensive line.

Top Undrafted Free Agent: Linebacker Curtis Jacobs

I graded Curtis Jacobs as a fourth-round prospect and was impressed by his film and overall profile. Weighing in at 240 lbs., Jacobs possesses remarkable versatility and range. He excels in coverage and has a knack for rushing the passer, showing effectiveness in downhill play. Recently, the Chiefs have enjoyed success with linebackers of his archetype, particularly with players like Willie Gay and Leo Chenal. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has a history of maximizing the potential of such players, and I can envision Jacobs evolving into a similar contributor over time.

While he will need to navigate special teams and compete against either Cam Jones or Cole Christiansen for a roster spot, I am optimistic about his chances based on what I observed in his film. I am excited to see what he can develop into in the long run.