Chiefs’ latest 3-round mock suggests Brett Veach is preparing for major exits

Mock drafts are a bit like a Caribbean weather forecast, something that draws our attention even though it's quite unreliable. Still, mocks are a part of the annual content cycle for NFL fans hungry for what’s next, and they offer a fun look at how a roster might continue to evolve.

The latest 2026 NFL mock draft from Brentley Weissman of the Pro Football Network includes a full three-round projection for every team.

For the Kansas City Chiefs, Weissman sees Brett Veach staying true to his 2025 emphasis with a defensive-minded haul, but of course, it doesn't hurt to add one more wideout to Patrick Mahomes’ toolbox.

Here’s who the Chiefs are projected to grab in the early rounds:

Round 1 (No. 31 overall): Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke

Rivers has been on NFL radars for years after turning in an MVP performance with a pick-six in the Birmingham Bowl during his sophomore season at Duke. Since becoming a starter as a true freshman, Rivers has become a versatile defender who was named first-team All-ACC last season. In 2024, he racked up 8 pass deflections, 3 interceptions, and allowed a QB rating under 60 when targeted.

For the Chiefs, drafting a high-profile corner could be just what the doctor ordered if free agency becomes a portal for major departures. Joshua Williams, Jaylen Watson, Nazeeh Johnson, and Bryan Cook are all scheduled to hit the market, and that could lead to Veach adding another first-round corner to give Trent McDuffie some help.

Round 2 (No. 63 overall): Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana

From Saint Francis to James Madison to Indiana, Elijah Sarratt has been making moves to bolster his NFL Draft stock over the years. Last season, Sarratt had a solid welcome campaign in the Big Ten with 53 catches for 957 yards and 8 touchdowns. That followed a year with JMU in which he had 1,152 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns on 78 catches.

Sarratt's big size (6'2) and physical nature could be a welcome addition to the Chiefs' offense as they potentially turn the corner away from Travis Kelce in 2026.

Round 3 (No. 95 overall): Lander Barton, LB, Utah

A two-time All-Pac-12 selection, Barton has NFL bloodlines (his brothers Cody and Jackson also play in the league) and a solid resume as a well-rounded linebacker likely headed to the pros in 2026. Bartone posted 72 total tackles (5 for a loss), 2 interceptions, 2 sacks, and 6 pass deflections for the Utes in 2024.

The Chiefs are facing a need at linebacker with Leo Chenal hitting free agency and Drue Tranquill turning 30. After drafting Jeffrey Bassa, the Chiefs already have some young talent in the pipeline, but it makes sense to add another young player on the depth chart to give Nick Bolton further assistance.