Kansas City Chiefs 2025 NFL Draft Grades

The Kansas City Chiefs entered the 2025 NFL Draft aiming to reload once again. With eight selections at their disposal, they had a clear vision for addressing key roster needs. Kansas City prioritized adding talent at defensive line, offensive tackle, and running back while also keeping an eye toward future depth across other positions.

General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid worked efficiently to check off several of those boxes. The Chiefs made a few trades, targeted athletic upside, and ultimately built a draft class filled with potential playmakers. Let’s dive into each pick, and how they fit, and assign grades for Kansas City’s 2025 draft haul.

Round 1, Pick 32: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State

Simmons gives the Chiefs a long-term solution at offensive tackle with elite upside. If not for a knee injury last season, Simmons likely would have been a top-10 pick. His athletic movement and strong pass-protection skills project him as Patrick Mahomes’ future blindside protector.

While Simmons might not overpower defenders in the run game yet, his footwork and agility are special. Kansas City can afford to ease him in without rushing his development. Simmons could anchor the offensive line for years once he is fully healthy.

Grade: A

Round 2, Pick 63: Omarr Norman-Lott, DT, Tennessee

Norman-Lott is one of the draft’s ultimate boom-or-bust defensive prospects. His athletic flashes are undeniable, but his limited college production raises concerns about consistency. The Chiefs are banking on defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo tapping into Norman-Lott’s explosiveness.

If Norman-Lott learns better control and discipline, he could become a disruptive force. However, the risk is high for a second-round investment, considering his limited snap counts and starting experience in Tennessee.

Grade: C-

Round 3, Pick 66: Ashton Gillotte, Edge, Louisville

Gillotte brings high energy and relentless effort to Kansas City’s pass rush. Although he lacks ideal length and elite top-end speed, his motor is nonstop. Gillotte’s ability to kick inside or attack from the edge gives Spagnuolo new flexibility up front.

While he might not be a polished every-down starter yet, Gillotte’s production at Louisville was impressive. His physical style and fiery competitiveness should immediately carve out a rotational role on defense.

Grade: B-

Round 3, Pick 85: Nohl Williams, CB, California

Williams could prove to be Kansas City’s most valuable selection from this draft. His ball skills, physicality, and versatility will fit perfectly in the Chiefs’ aggressive secondary. Williams’ knack for producing turnovers gives the defense another dangerous weapon.

While he may need to prove he can keep up with faster NFL receivers, the foundation is strong. Williams’ production and tenacity suggest he will be an impact player early in his career.

Grade: B+

Round 4, Pick 133: Jalen Royals, WR, Utah State

Royals’ combination of size, footwork, and body control gives the Chiefs another weapon. His ability to contribute at all three levels of the field should excite Reid. Royals can line up outside, work the slot, or even handle occasional rushing attempts.

With further polish on his route tree, Royals has a clear path to becoming a starting-caliber receiver. His play style and versatility make him a dangerous addition to Mahomes’ arsenal.

Grade: A-

Round 5, Pick 156: Jeffrey Bassa, LB, Oregon

Bassa provides athleticism, experience, and leadership at the linebacker position. Having transitioned from safety to linebacker early in college, he brings strong coverage instincts. Bassa’s ability to contribute on special teams right away adds important roster value.

If Bassa can turn near-miss plays into consistent production, he could develop into a starter. Kansas City’s coaching staff is excited about his upside and believes he can exceed expectations.

Grade: B+

Round 7, Pick 228: Brashard Smith, RB, SMU

Smith is a dynamic athlete who brings speed and playmaking ability to the offense. His background as a wide receiver gives him an advantage in catching passes out of the backfield. Smith also offers major value on special teams as a dangerous kick returner.

Although Smith needs refinement with his patience and timing as a runner, his traits are special. With creative usage, he can carve out a gadget role and become a situational difference-maker.

Grade: B

Final Thoughts

Kansas City’s 2025 draft class was defined by chasing athletic upside and positional versatility. This is why I would give this year’s draft class by the Chiefs an overall B+ grade. The Chiefs managed to address several areas of need while adding players capable of contributing on both offense and defense. They also wisely targeted players who fit their developmental model and culture.

While some risks were taken, particularly with Norman-Lott, the overall return looks strong. Simmons and Royals could emerge as future stars, while others add critical depth. If a few high-upside gambles hit, this draft will help extend Kansas City’s championship window even further.