It’s absurd to evaluate a draft class after just one night—yet let’s do it anyway!
As the 2025 NFL Draft kicked off in Green Bay, Wisconsin on Thursday evening, the Kansas City Chiefs held the 31st pick. After months filled with speculation, assessments, rumors, and mock drafts, the night unfolded largely as anticipated. The Chiefs even managed to snag the 32nd pick from the team that previously prevented them from selecting there!
Although the Chiefs made a familiar choice, this selection has the potential for significant value. While several teams traded future draft picks to secure their future quarterback (with only two actually selected), the Chiefs chose to strengthen their existing quarterback.
Here are some preliminary thoughts on who emerged as winners and losers from Thursday night.
Winners
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Left tackle Jaylon Moore: It must be disheartening for an NFL player to await their opportunity. Moore was drafted to a team with a Hall of Fame left tackle and spent his entire rookie contract behind Trent Williams. After getting his chance to prove himself in 2024, Kansas City rewarded him with a significant contract to fill a crucial need at left tackle. He likely felt poised to finally be “the guy.” Yet, shortly thereafter, the Chiefs brought in a highly skilled player for the same position. While it’s possible for Moore to still start the season as the team’s left tackle, he might find himself looking over his shoulder at someone who could take his role. In an ideal scenario, both tackles perform well, allowing the team to transition away from Jawaan Taylor in 2026, giving them both a shot at starting. Presently, however, Jaylon feels more like insurance than a leading figure.
Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo: In a draft filled with defensive prospects, Spags will have to wait at least another day for reinforcements. Many top fits for his squad were selected in the ten picks preceding the Chiefs’ turn, including defensive tackle Derrick Harmon and safety Malaki Starks. Additionally, the team traded out of 31, allowing the Eagles to select draft standout linebacker Jihaad Campbell. With Day 2 approaching, several of the best remaining prospects are defenders, including cornerback Will Johnson, EDGE Mike Green, and safety Nick Emmanwori. While it’s unlikely Spagnuolo is overly distressed, as the team is expected to heavily invest in defense this weekend, acquiring a first-round defensive tackle would have been beneficial.
