Kansas City Chiefs’ 2025 Draft Targets: Top Defensive Prospects to Watch

The Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 Draft Game Plan: Key Defensive Prospects to Watch

The Kansas City Chiefs are always in the hunt for top-tier talent, and heading into the 2025 offseason, their biggest priority should be injecting youth and athleticism into their defense. With an ever-competitive AFC landscape, the Chiefs need fresh defensive playmakers to keep their Super Bowl aspirations alive. Fortunately, the 2025 NFL Draft is stacked with high-upside prospects who could provide an immediate impact for Kansas City.

This past week, the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine showcased some of the most exciting defensive prospects, and several of them undoubtedly caught the Chiefs' attention. Held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, the event provided Kansas City’s scouting department with a front-row seat to some jaw-dropping performances. As the Chiefs look to fill gaps in their roster, a few standout players have emerged as ideal fits. Some may even warrant a trade-up in the draft, depending on how things shake out.

Let’s break down four standout prospects from the combine who should absolutely be on Kansas City’s radar. Whether it's raw speed, power, or versatility, these players demonstrated they have what it takes to be difference-makers at the next level.

James Pearce Jr. – EDGE, Tennessee Volunteers

If there was one defensive player who truly turned heads at the combine, it was James Pearce Jr. The Tennessee Volunteers’ edge rusher put on an absolute show in Indy, proving he has the athleticism to be a game-changer at the pro level.

Pearce ran an eye-popping 4.47-second 40-yard dash, an elite number for a defensive end. That kind of speed off the edge is a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and offensive tackles alike. With such an electric performance, Pearce's draft stock skyrocketed, making it increasingly unlikely he’ll still be available when the Chiefs pick at No. 31 in the first round.

So what does that mean for Kansas City? It means Pearce could be a prime trade-up target if the Chiefs truly believe he’s a difference-maker. Given their recent success with defensive standouts like George Karlaftis, adding another dynamic pass-rusher like Pearce could push their defense to new heights. If Brett Veach and company want an instant-impact player, Pearce is an enticing option.

Darius Alexander – Defensive Tackle, Toledo Rockets

When you think of explosive defensive linemen, a small-school prospect like Darius Alexander might not be the first name that comes to mind—but after his performance at the combine, that should change. The Toledo defensive tackle was one of the most physically dominant players in Indianapolis, putting up incredible numbers across multiple drills.

Weighing in at over 300 pounds, Alexander still managed to run the 40-yard dash in under five seconds, which is an insane level of speed for a player of his size. To add to that, he tied for second in the bench press with 28 reps, showcasing the power to be a force in the trenches.

Even more intriguing? Alexander had a formal meeting with the Chiefs at the combine, signaling that Kansas City has a legitimate interest in what he brings to the table. With Chris Jones getting older and the Chiefs always looking for interior defensive help, Alexander could be a steal in the later rounds of the draft.

Nick Martin – Linebacker, Oklahoma State Cowboys

One of the biggest questions heading into the Chiefs' offseason is the future of linebacker Nick Bolton. Set to hit free agency if he doesn’t secure a contract extension, Bolton’s potential departure could leave a major hole in Kansas City’s defensive front. That’s where Nick Martin from Oklahoma State comes into play.

Martin had one of the most well-rounded performances among linebackers at the combine, proving that he could be a versatile and explosive playmaker in the NFL. His numbers? A 4.53-second 40-yard dash, a 38-inch vertical jump, and a 26-rep bench press performance, tying for the top mark among linebackers. That kind of combination of speed, strength, and agility makes Martin a tantalizing option for the Chiefs.

If Bolton does move on, Martin could slide into a similar role in Steve Spagnuolo’s defense. His ability to cover ground quickly and his physicality in the box make him an exciting prospect, especially if Kansas City is looking for a cost-effective, high-upside replacement.

Nick Emmanwori – Defensive Back, South Carolina Gamecocks

If the Chiefs are looking for a defensive back with elite measurables and playmaking ability, Nick Emmanwori is the guy to watch. The South Carolina standout dominated the combine, putting together one of the most impressive performances of any player in Indianapolis.

At 6'3" and 220 pounds, Emmanwori isn’t just a fast, physical defensive back—he’s a freakish athlete. He ran a 4.38-second 40-yard dash with a blistering 1.49-second 10-yard split, which means he has both top-end speed and explosive acceleration. On top of that, he led all safeties in the vertical and long jumps, posting an unreal 43-inch vertical and 11’6” broad jump.

Kansas City’s secondary has been a strength, but adding a player like Emmanwori could give them even more versatility. With his size, speed, and range, he could fit in as a hybrid safety who can cover tight ends, play in the box, or patrol deep downfield. If the Chiefs are looking for an impact defensive back later in the draft, Emmanwori is a name to remember.

The Final Verdict: How Should Kansas City Approach the Draft?

The Chiefs are no strangers to making bold draft moves, and the 2025 NFL Draft presents them with another opportunity to build a championship-caliber defense. With several key defensive positions needing reinforcements, Kansas City must be strategic in how they approach their selections.

• James Pearce Jr. could be a game-wrecking pass-rusher but may require a trade-up.

• Darius Alexander offers a rare blend of size and speed at defensive tackle and already has the Chiefs' attention.

• Nick Martin could be a perfect replacement for Nick Bolton if the Chiefs need a new defensive quarterback.

• Nick Emmanwori is a freak athlete who could add even more firepower to Kansas City’s secondary.

Kansas City’s championship window remains wide open, but the defense will need to step up if they want to return to the Super Bowl. With the right selections in April, the Chiefs could reload their defense and keep their title aspirations alive for years to come. Will Brett Veach make another draft-day splash? We’ll find out soon enough.