As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Kansas City Chiefs are set to focus on improving their roster. With the free agency period mostly behind them, the Chiefs will shift their attention to next month’s draft to fill the gaps left in their roster.
While the Chiefs made some moves in free agency, they were unable to address every need and will aim to secure players who fit their system. The team holds the 31st overall pick in the first round, which, though at the bottom of the round, has historically been a good spot for the Chiefs to find impactful talent.
The Chiefs are expected to target key positions, such as defensive line, offensive line, and wide receiver, to strengthen their squad. General manager Brett Veach has a strong track record of identifying players who fit head coach Andy Reid’s offense and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s defense.
Kansas City also has the flexibility to trade up or down if they believe it will benefit the team. In Sports Illustrated’s most recent mock draft, they predict the Chiefs will target defensive line help, selecting James Pearce Jr., a defensive lineman from the University of Tennessee.
“Christmas comes early as James Pearce, defensive tackle from Tennessee, drops into their lap,” the mock draft says.
This pick would be a steal for the Chiefs, as Pearce is considered a top-15 talent. Some teams’ tendencies to reach for players could result in Pearce falling to Kansas City, where he could learn and develop alongside Chris Jones.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein provided an analysis of Pearce’s abilities, stating, “Pearce is a tight-hipped, linear pass rusher with explosive take-offs and good speed-to-power, but lacks the bend to flatten at the top. His high pressure rate is a result of his instinctive feel for positioning, allowing him to work around blockers for quick wins into the pocket.”
While Pearce’s frame might be limited due to his narrow hips, his length, speed, and rush production offer significant potential. However, Zierlein notes that Pearce will need to improve his strength and technique as an NFL run defender. Despite these concerns, his physical attributes and pass-rushing ability give him a high ceiling.
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