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The Chiefs’ search for their next star tight end takes center stage as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.Kansas City Today
The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, with tight end emerging as a key position of need. While veteran Travis Kelce is still on the roster, the team is eyeing top prospects like Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq, Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers, and Ohio State’s Max Clare to potentially replace him in the future. The Chiefs hold the 9th and 29th overall picks in the first round.
Why it matters
The Chiefs’ tight end position is in transition, as the legendary Travis Kelce is nearing the end of his career. Drafting a top-tier tight end prospect could help ensure the team maintains a strong passing attack and offensive identity even after Kelce’s eventual retirement.
The details
Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq is considered the top tight end in the draft class, having run a 4.39 40-yard dash and recorded a 43-inch vertical jump at the combine. Other talented tight ends include Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers and Ohio State’s Max Clare. The Chiefs will also be keeping an eye on several local prospects, including Oklahoma’s Jaren Kanak, Tennessee’s Miles Kitselman, and Wyoming’s John Michael Gyllenborg.
The 2026 NFL Draft is just over two weeks away.KSHB 41’s first draft special is scheduled for Thursday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m.
The players
The veteran tight end who has been a key part of the Chiefs’ offense for over a decade.
Kenyon Sadiq
The top tight end prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, known for his impressive combine performance.
Eli Stowers
A talented tight end prospect from Vanderbilt who is expected to be drafted in the early rounds.
Max Clare
An Ohio State tight end who is also considered one of the top prospects at the position in this year’s draft.
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What’s next
The Chiefs will continue to evaluate the top tight end prospects leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place April 24-26. They will be looking to add a potential long-term replacement for the aging Travis Kelce with one of their two first-round picks.
The takeaway
The Chiefs’ focus on tight end in the upcoming draft highlights the importance of planning for the future at key positions, even when a team has an established veteran like Travis Kelce. Drafting a top tight end prospect could help ensure the Chiefs maintain their offensive identity and passing attack long after Kelce’s eventual retirement.