Denny Medley-Imagn Images

Chiefs Predicted to Draft First-Team All-American WR

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Feb 27, 2026 1:00 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs' dynasty took a major step back in 2025. After becoming the fourth team in NFL history to reach three consecutive Super Bowls, the team finished the season with a record of 6-11.

To complicate things further, star quarterback Patrick Mahomes tore two ligaments in his knee at the end of the season, putting the start of 2026 in jeopardy. Additionally, head coach Andy Reid faces a challenging task, as the wide receiver group did not perform well.

Travis Kelce led the team with 851 receiving yards, but he may consider retiring this offseason. Hollywood Brown topped all wide receivers with only 587 yards. Rashee Rice had a solid performance with 571 yards in just eight games after returning from a suspension.

This need for a wide receiver is why Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz from USA Today suggests that the Chiefs should select Makai Lemon, the Biletnikoff Award winner and first-team All-American wide receiver.

USC wide receiver Makai LemonGary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

"It feels like a big swing, or two could be coming for a Kansas City team intent on recapturing its status as the AFC's leading contender," Middlehurst-Schwartz said. "Perhaps one will take place in free agency if the team strikes out for a running back to repair a rudderless rushing attack that too often left everything squarely on the shoulders of Patrick Mahomes. But the receiving corps is also in need of reinforcements, and Lemon's knack for generating rapid separation would add a new flavor to the group."

Lemon outperformed receivers such as Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith to win the award. In 2025, he had an impressive season, recording 79 catches for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. ESPN ranks him as the fourth-best receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, Middlehurst-Schwartz ranks him as the second receiver off the board, following Ohio State's Carnell Tate.

Lemon’s skill set could provide Mahomes with a dynamic weapon capable of quickly reshaping the passing attack. Though draft boards vary, Kansas City’s need for explosiveness at receiver may outweigh positional debates. If the Chiefs want to reclaim their place atop the AFC, adding a playmaker like Lemon could be the first major step in their retooling process.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: