Report: Chiefs 'Engaged' On Blockbuster NFL Draft Trade

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Holleran | Last updated Apr 19, 2026 1:17 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly engaged on a huge NFL Draft trade.

The Chiefs, who missed the playoffs last season, have the No. 9 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. However, it sounds like Kansas City is considering a big move up in the NFL Draft. The Chiefs are reportedly considering a trade into the top five.

The Chiefs have reportedly "engaged" with the Cardinals on a trade involving the No. 3 overall pick in the NFL Draft.

"There's growing speculation that the Kansas City Chiefs have had trade talks with the Arizona Cardinals about acquiring the third overall pick. Notable Chiefs draft picks: 9, 29, 40 and 74," Johnny Venerable shared.

There's growing speculation that the Kansas City Chiefs have had trade talks with the Arizona Cardinals about acquiring the third overall pick.

Notable Chiefs draft picks: 9, 29, 40 and 74.
— Johnny Venerable (@JohnnyVenerable) April 18, 2026

The Chiefs could trade up to No. 3 overall, in search of a dominant pass rusher. Kansas City is believed to be targeting a defensive difference maker if they were to land the No. 3 overall pick.

Kansas City could target Travis Kelce's replacement if no trade is made

If the Chiefs were to stay at No. 9 overall, they could target Travis Kelce's replacement.

Kansas City has been linked to Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the No. 9 overall pick.

“The Chiefs have a massive need at corner after losing Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson,” Sports Illustrated's Gilbert Manzano wrote. “But there’s depth at cornerback in this year’s class, and a few intriguing prospects could be available in the later rounds.

“Kansas City should look ahead and add Sadiq to eventually replace Travis Kelce. He can learn from one of the best ever at the position while offensive mastermind Andy Reid builds a unique set of plays for the athletically gifted Oregon tight end. (Sadiq ran a 4.39 at the scouting combine.)”

It could be a fascinating NFL Draft for the Chiefs.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: