Chiefs Draft Josh Simmons, Thielen Trade Unlikely

The Kansas City Chiefs traded down one spot in the first round of the NFL Draft, acquiring an extra fifth-round pick from the Philadelphia Eagles and selecting Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons at No. 32 overall. Simmons, a top talent prior to an ACL injury, is viewed as a high-risk, high-reward selection aimed at strengthening protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes after past offensive line struggles. While rumors persisted about a possible trade for Panthers veteran receiver Adam Thielen, Carolina reportedly remains unwilling to trade him due to his importance to their offense. Analysts note that the Chiefs ultimately prioritized addressing their offensive line needs through the draft rather than pursuing a receiver trade. This move signals the team's strategy to build protection for Mahomes with young talent rather than making major trades. As a result, Kansas City's receiving corps remains unchanged going into the next season.