Chiefs GM Brett Veach Eyes Offensive Line Depth in 2026 NFL Draft
Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach has the No. 9, No. 29 and No. 40 overall picks in the 2026 NFL draft, and he's keeping a close eye on the offensive line prospects who might be available to him at those three picks.
Kansas City Chiefs General Manager Brett Veach is zeroing in on offensive line talent ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, armed with three premium selections — the No. 9, No. 29, and No. 40 overall picks — to reshape the team's front.
Veach has been candid about his assessment of the draft class, acknowledging that while offensive line talent is present, it thins out dramatically after the first round. That reality could force his hand early if the Chiefs are serious about addressing the position.
With the ninth overall pick, Veach would have his choice of the top blockers in the class. However, the jump in quality between first-round prospects and those available in the second round appears steep, making early investment in the position a likely priority.
The No. 29 and No. 40 picks give Kansas City additional flexibility, but Veach's comments suggest he is aware that waiting too long to select an offensive lineman could mean settling for significantly lesser talent. The window to land a difference-maker up front may be narrow.
Protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes remains the franchise's top concern, and bolstering the offensive line has been a recurring theme for the Chiefs in recent offseasons. Veach's focus on the position this cycle signals the team may be ready to commit premium draft capital to solving it once and for all.
As the 2026 draft approaches, all eyes will be on how Veach navigates the board with his three top-60 selections and whether Kansas City moves decisively to fortify its trenches before the talent pool runs dry.