Price's Picks: 10 Biggest Draft Crushes for the Chiefs in 2026 NFL Draft
I've been watching tape on these guys since the Christmas tree was up, and they've made me chuckle in my office at 11 p.m. the most. Here are my top 10 picks for the 2026 NFL Draft, with a focus on players who have stood out for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Lee Hunter, IDL, Texas Tech: Nicknamed "the Fridge," Hunter is a true nose tackle who wrecks plays with his country-strong physique. His 10.6 pass rush win rate is impressive, and he's a class-act guy with excellent interviews. Shades of DJ Reader.
Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska: Johnson is one of the most productive backs in the class, averaging over 150 scrimmage yards per game. He's a shifty, tackle-breaking threat with a high floor. His combine performance was average, but he's a viable NFL back. Shades of Travis Etienne.
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Makai Lemon, WR, USC: Lemon is a polished route runner with exceptional after-the-catch ability. He's a fun player to watch, despite his lack of size and top speed. He's a high-level fit for the Chiefs' West Coast offense. Shades of Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Keionte Scott, CB, Miami: Scott is a heat-seeking missile in the run game and a crash downhill player. He's got 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions, and 7 passes defended. He's a nickel or box safety role player with a high ceiling. Shades of Alontae Taylor.
Eli Raridon, TE, Notre Dame: Raridon is a classic Y-TE with a 6-6, 245-lb frame and a 9.45 relative athletic score. He's a good blocker and has the traits to be a plus receiver. His medical history (torn ACL twice) is a concern, but he's a high-level fit for the Chiefs' offense. Shades of Theo Johnson.
Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami: Bain is an instant-impact player with power and violence. He dominated outside and inside with short arms, even against tackles with long arms. He has a high floor and is a confident pick at No. 9. Shades of Brandon Graham.
Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State: Lance is a natural hands-catcher with long speed and explosiveness. He's a natural X receiver who requires route polish. He has NFL bloodlines and checks boxes for the Chiefs. Shades of Christian Watson.
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson: Miller is a natural and experienced right tackle with 54 career starts. He's a team captain, an All-ACC Academic Team member, and a tough player. He's a high-level fit for the Chiefs' offense. Shades of Roger Rosengarten.
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee: Hood is a long, physical press corner who tackles well. He took over the top CB role when Jermod McCoy went down and has 17 passes defended in his last two seasons. He's a high-level fit for the Chiefs' defense. Shades of Kamari Lassiter.
These players have stood out for their tape, interviews, and overall potential. They are the crumpled-up sticky notes in my pocket on draft day, and I'm confident they will make an impact in the NFL.
