The 2026 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and the excitement is building as teams prepare to make their selections. In the lead up to draft day, we’ve already seen some major trades, including two involving first-round picks. The Los Angeles Rams acquired Trent McDuffie from the Washington Redskins in exchange for the 29th overall pick, while the Baltimore Ravens sent their 14th overall pick to the Kansas City Chiefs. With these new additions, what can we expect from the Raiders and Chiefs in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
For the Raiders, this is a crucial draft as they look to build upon their recent success and solidify their position as a top team in the league. With the addition of the 14th overall pick, they have the opportunity to add a talented player to their already stacked roster. The question is, who will they choose?
One possibility is that they use the pick to bolster their defense. The Raiders have a solid offense led by quarterback Derek Carr, but their defense has been lacking in recent years. With the 14th overall pick, they could target a top defensive prospect such as linebacker Jalen Harrison or defensive end Marcus Johnson. Both players have shown immense potential and could make an immediate impact on the Raiders’ defense.
Another option for the Raiders is to use the pick to add depth to their offensive line. While their starting lineup is strong, injuries and fatigue can quickly take a toll on a team’s performance. By selecting a top offensive lineman like Tyler Clark or Jameson Williams, the Raiders can ensure that they have a strong backup plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
On the other hand, the Chiefs have been one of the top teams in the league for the past few years, and with the addition of the 14th overall pick, they have the chance to solidify their position at the top. With quarterback Patrick Mahomes leading the way, the Chiefs have a high-powered offense, but they could use some help on the defensive side of the ball.
One option for the Chiefs is to target a top cornerback with their new pick. With the departure of Charvarius Ward in free agency, the Chiefs could use some help in their secondary. A player like Trent McDuffie, who was acquired by the Rams in a trade, could be a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ defense. He has the speed and agility to keep up with top receivers and could make an immediate impact on the field.
Another possibility for the Chiefs is to add depth to their receiving corps. While they have a strong group of receivers led by Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce, adding another talented player could make their offense even more dangerous. Players like wide receiver Jalen Smith or tight end Marcus Johnson could be great options for the Chiefs with their new first-round pick.
Overall, both the Raiders and Chiefs have the opportunity to make a significant impact on their teams with their new first-round picks. Whether they choose to strengthen their defense, add depth to their offense, or target a specific position, these picks could play a crucial role in their success in the upcoming season.
As we eagerly await the 2026 NFL Draft, one thing is for sure – both the Raiders and Chiefs will be looking to make the most of their new first-round picks. With the right selection, these teams could take their already impressive rosters to the next level and solidify their positions as top contenders in the league. It’s an exciting time for football fans, and we can’t wait to see what these teams have in store for us on draft day.