Kansas City Chiefs Gamble on EDGE and Wide Receiver Could SHOCK the Entire NFL

Locked On Chiefs - Daily Podcast On The Kansas City Chiefs12mApril 17, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

This episode of the Locked On Chiefs podcast dives into the Kansas City Chiefs' most likely draft strategies for the upcoming NFL Draft, focusing on two high-impact scenarios. Host Ross Jackson is joined by Jesse Newell from The Athletic to analyze the team's potential moves at the No. 9 pick. The discussion centers on the possibility of the Chiefs selecting either a top-tier edge rusher like TJ Parker or a high-upside wide receiver such as Carnell Tate or Tyson, with Ruben Bain emerging as a strong fit for the defense due to his size, length, and production. The hosts debate whether the Chiefs will prioritize need, fit, or value, with a strong emphasis on how their defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s preferences shape their evaluation. A key takeaway is the team’s flexibility—trading up or down based on board movement—and the potential for a 'perfect' draft board sequence: receiver, edge rusher, then defensive tackle. Despite uncertainty, the consensus leans toward the Chiefs targeting either a receiver or edge rusher at No. 9, with a preference for a player who fits their system rather than chasing the highest-rated prospect. The episode also features two sponsor segments: Rougie, offering a performance-enhancing mint for confidence, and Rocket Money, a personal finance app that helps users track and cancel unwanted subscriptions. The hosts emphasize the importance of preparation and control—both on and off the field—mirroring the Chiefs' strategic approach to the draft. Overall, the tone is optimistic and analytical, reflecting excitement around the draft’s potential to reshape the Chiefs’ roster. The episode underscores the team’s long-term planning, trust in their scouting staff, and willingness to adapt to the unpredictable nature of the draft process.

Key Takeaways
1

The Chiefs are likely to target either a wide receiver or edge rusher with their No. 9 pick, prioritizing fit over raw draft stock.

2

TJ Parker is highlighted as the ideal edge rusher fit for Steve Spagnuolo’s defensive scheme due to length, power, and versatility.

3

Ruben Bain is a strong candidate if the Chiefs stay at No. 9, despite some concerns about his fit with the defense’s coverage schemes.

4

The Chiefs may trade back to preserve draft capital while still landing a high-value player, showing flexibility in their approach.

5

A 'perfect' draft sequence would be: receiver at 9, edge rusher at 29, and defensive tackle at 40—maximizing system fit and value.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & Club Announcement

Ross Jackson introduces the Locked On Chiefs podcast and promotes the Everydayer Club, an ad-free subscription service with fan community access.

2:00
3 min

Chiefs' Draft Strategy: The Edge Rusher Debate

The guy that fits all of those things best in this draft class is TJ Parker. And it's great that you hit on it because I've been banging the bell for him for quite a while.

Highlight
5:00
4 min

Ruben Bain & Defensive Fit

This doesn't fit with a Steve Spagnuolo defense. It doesn't fit with potentially what his perfect fit is.

Highlight
9:00
3 min

Wide Receiver Dilemma: Boston vs. Tate vs. Tyson

I could definitely see him helping in that way and giving Mahomes a different option than what he has right now.

Highlight
12:00
1 min

Final Prediction & Draft Flexibility

The episode concludes with a prediction that the Chiefs will likely pick either a receiver or edge rusher at No. 9, emphasizing flexibility and long-term planning over immediate panic.

High-Impact Quotes
The guy that fits all of those things best in this draft class is TJ Parker. And it's great that you hit on it because I've been banging the bell for him for quite a while.
Jesse Newell10:36
Viral: 85.0
I would be stunned at this point if their number nine pick is not receiver or edge rusher.
Ross Jackson12:51
Viral: 80.0
This doesn't fit with a Steve Spagnuolo defense. It doesn't fit with potentially what his perfect fit is.
Jesse Newell3:05
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Host

Ross Jackson

Guest

Jesse Newell
Topics Discussed
Chiefs NFL Draft Strategy95%Edge Rusher Evaluation90%Wide Receiver Fit for Chiefs Offense88%Defensive Scheme Compatibility85%Draft Flexibility and Trading82%Scouting and Front Office Trust80%Player Fit vs. Draft Stock78%Chiefs' System-Based Drafting75%
People & Brands

Kansas City Chiefs

other

28xPositive

Jesse Newell

person

12xPositive

Steve Spagnuolo

person

7xPositive

Brett Veach

person

6xPositive

Ross Jackson

person

6xNeutral

Ruben Bain

person

5xMixed

The Athletic

organization

5xPositive

Patrick Mahomes

person

5xPositive

TJ Parker

person

5xPositive

Andy Reid

person

4xPositive

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