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Stacking the Defense: Chiefs' Top Defensive Draft Targets Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft

Stacking the Defense: Chiefs’ Top Defensive Draft Targets Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft

By / / 3 minutes of reading

The Kansas City Chiefs are navigating a fine line between AFC dominance and roster evolution. After falling extremely short against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, Kansas City enters the 2025 NFL Draft with questions that need answers.

The Chiefs enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear goal around the during up the offensive line. However, the defense is in need of some help as well. Do not be surprised if this upcoming draft is a defensive-heavy draft for Brett Veach and the KC front office.

Stacking the Defense: Chiefs' Top Defensive Draft Targets Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft / Kansas City Chiefs

Shoring Up the Edge: Chiefs Could Reload with Elite Pass-Rushing Talent

Chris Jones remains a cornerstone up front—but for how much longer?

Kansas City’s pass rush must evolve. Former first-rounder George Karlaftis continues to progress, but the Chiefs need another impact EDGE who can win 1-on-1s consistently. James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee) and Walter Nolen (Ole Miss) have the juice to elevate this unit. Pearce’s burst and bend off the edge scream double-digit sack potential, while Nolen brings a blend of power and athleticism that would thrive under Steve Spagnuolo.

Another prospect to consider is Shemar Stewart from (Texas A&M). At 6’5″ and 267 pounds, Stewart combines size with agility, offering a robust presence on the edge. His skill set could provide the Chiefs with a dynamic pass-rushing option to complement their existing lineup.

If you’re analyzing Kansas City Chiefs odds on whether they will select more offensive vs defensive players in this year’s draft, do not overlook the team’s defensive need.

Stacking the Defense: Chiefs' Top Defensive Draft Targets Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft /Kansas City Chiefs

Secondary Depth Could Be the Sleeper Focus

The loss of L’Jarius Sneed in the offseason opened a quiet but meaningful hole in the secondary. While Trent McDuffie is developing into a true CB1, the Chiefs need more versatility and coverage reliability if they want to keep AFC offenses in check. With Justin Reid also departing, safety could become a sneaky Day 2 priority as well.

Enter Shavon Revel Jr. (East Carolina). At 6’3″ and 193 pounds, Revel brings an impressive combination of length and athleticism. His ability to disrupt passing lanes and match up against taller receivers could be invaluable for the Chiefs’ defense. He had a 1st round draft status, but some injuries have him falling into the second. This could be a reach for the Chiefs at #31 but not a bad selection at #63.

In the safety position, Xavier Watts (Notre Dame) stands out. He has great footwork and shines as a run stopper. His speed is not elite, but he makes up for it with toughness. As the AFC West improves, you need more players with some muscle, like Watts.

Final Thoughts: Chiefs Eye Defensive Future on Draft Day

Look for Kansas City to prioritize physical, high-upside defenders who can contribute early but also grow into foundational roles. Whether it’s in the trenches or the secondary, this draft could quietly be one of the most important in Brett Veach’s tenure.

The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday, April 24, live from Green Bay, Wisconsin. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, and NFL Network. Chiefs Kingdom, enjoy the draft!  Another run at the Lombardi is just around the corner.

Thank you for reading my Chiefs 2025 NFL Draft article. You can read more of my sports betting content on my IDP+ Author page. After that, feel free to connect with me on Twitter @MarcSaulino and follow @IDP_Plus to stay informed about everything NFL-relevant by becoming a member.