Chiefs Revamp Roster Following 2026 NFL Draft
The Kansas City Chiefs have revamped their roster following the 2026 NFL Draft. General Manager Brett Veach has been proactive in strengthening the team’s defense. With a focus on both drafted players and undrafted free agents, the Chiefs aim to enhance their squad.
Chiefs’ Post-Draft Strategy
The completion of the 2026 NFL Draft marks the beginning of a new phase for the Chiefs. The team has made significant upgrades, particularly in defensive positions. As usual, they now turn their attention to signing promising players overlooked during the draft.
Chiefs’ management competes annually with 31 NFL teams to secure undrafted talents. This strategy has proven effective in the past, allowing the Chiefs to find contributors who may otherwise go unnoticed.
Notable Success with Undrafted Free Agents
Veach has a keen eye for talent in this area. The team’s history provides ample proof of the potential these players hold. Several former undrafted players have become key contributors, including:
- Turk Wharton – Former defensive end who excelled after being picked up from Missouri S&T.
- Andrew Wylie – Versatile lineman who moved on to a lucrative contract with the Washington Commanders.
- Tommy Townsend – A punter who solidified his role through perseverance.
- Darrel Williams – A running back who contributed significantly during his tenure.
- Jack Cochrane and Ben Niemann – Linebackers who have made their mark on the roster.
- Jody Fortson – A tight end who has provided depth to the position.
Additionally, Charvarius Ward stands out as a successful find who developed into a top cornerback after being traded to the Chiefs.
Upcoming Rookie Minicamp
Immediately following the draft, Veach commenced signing undrafted prospects still available on their board. The Chiefs’ rookie minicamp, scheduled for May 1-2, will provide the coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, an opportunity to evaluate these new additions closely.
List of Undrafted Free Agent Signings
| Name | Position | School |
|---|---|---|
| VJ Anthony | DE | Duke |
| Wesley Bissainthe | LB | Miami |
| Cole Brevard | IDL | Texas |
| Jeff Caldwell | WR | Cincinnati |
| Carter Davis* | K | Miami |
| Jacob De Jesus | WR | Cal |
| Anthony Dunn Jr. | LB | Toledo |
| Omari Evans | WR | Washington |
| Rahsul Faison* | RB | South Carolina |
| Tunde Fatukasi* | OL | Bowling Green |
| John Michael Gyllenborg | TE | Wyoming |
| Louis Hanson* | TE | Connecticut |
| Al-Jay Henderson* | RB | Buffalo |
| Kajiya Hollawayne* | WR | Temple |
| Ethan Hurkett | EDGE | Iowa |
| Kenzel Lawler* | CB | Montana |
| Xavier Nwankpa | S | Iowa |
| Pete Nygra | OL | Louisville |
| Jadyn Ott | RB | Oklahoma |
| D’Arco Perkins-McAllister | CB | UL-Monroe |
| Jeff Persi* | OL | Pitt |
| Bryce Phillips | DB | San Diego State |
| Jaden Richardson* | WR | USC |
| Deshon Singleton | S | Nebraska |
| Cam Smith* | S | Marshall |
| E.J. Smith | RB | Texas A&M |
| Terion Stewart | RB | Virginia Tech |
| Shay Taylor* | LB | Charlotte |
| Josh Thompson | OL | LSU |
| Zelmar Veddar | CB | Houston |
Note: * indicates rookie minicamp invite only. The Chiefs’ efforts mirror their commitment to building a competitive team by finding the best talent available.
