Chiefs Undrafted Rookie Closing in On Starting Position

Kansas City Chiefs Undrafted Rookie Khalil Benson is Fantastic

Kahlil Benson didn’t hear his name called during the NFL draft. However, he’s already ahead of most of the undrafted players from late April. The former Indiana Hoosier has been the talk of the Chief's training camp, and for good reason.

Benson began his college career in 2020 at Indiana University, where he struggled to find success. He tore his ACL his freshman season and missed all of the 2020 and 2021 season. He spent the next few years bouncing back and forth between right tackle and right guard. He even transferred to Colorado before returning to Indiana for the team’s 2025 national championship run. 

From No Combine Invite to Minicamp Signing

Benson didn’t receive an invite to the NFL Combine, leading to him being undrafted. However, he did receive an invitation to the Kansas City Chiefs rookie minicamp. He impressed the organization so much that they signed him right there. Of the 76 rookie tryout players, Benson was one of three to get signed. 

Praise from Chiefs Teammates

Since being signed to the official roster in May, Benson has done nothing but impress his teammates. Former first round pick and starting tackle Josh Simmons, told KQTV,

“I think Kahlil is doing a great job. I think he’s a very physical player. I think he should just add on to that. I think you can’t really teach effort. I mean that’s what he’s giving out there, so that’s really all I’m telling him right now is keep doing that effort.”

Andy Reid Talks About Benson

In addition to impressing his teammates, Benson also caught the attention of head coach Andy Reid. In an August 6th presser, Reid said,

“I think you let them compete and see where it goes. Both of them can play. We’ve got a young guy that we haven’t seen too much, but he has some talent. Let’s see where that goes.”

The “them” that Reid is referring to is current starter Jaylon Moore. Benson and Moore have been trading off first-team reps.

Benson Has a Real Chance to Start

With just under a month until the regular season begins, Benson has a real shot at becoming the starter. He and Moore will no doubt continue to battle throughout the preseason and remaining practices, but Benson is in a strong position. Going from undrafted in April to potentially becoming an NFL starter in September would be a remarkable journey.