With the Kansas City Chiefs (and the rest of the NFL) just weeks away from getting training camp underway in St. Joseph, ESPN analyst Matt Miller figured, “What better time to offer some 2025 first-round draft projections?”
Miller uses ESPN’s power index for the draft order, which has Kansas City picking at No. 31 (suggesting they may be this year’s Super Bowl runner-up).
Here’s Miller’s pick:
31. Kansas City Chiefs — Anthony Belton, OT, NC State
Despite how well the Chiefs have put together and managed their roster, there’s a lack of answers at offensive tackle. The Kingsley Suamataia pick in the second round likely solves one tackle spot, potentially replacing right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who struggled last season. Belton, a two-year starter at left tackle, allowed one sack last year and wows with his easy movement at 6-5 and 345 pounds. If the Chiefs like Suamataia on the right side (where most scouts pegged him pre-draft), then Belton could fit well at left tackle to give Patrick Mahomes more time in the pocket.
Takeaway
This projection implies that Taylor’s 2023 struggles will bleed into 2024, and Kansas City’s hand will be forced to move another player into his starting position. While that’s not impossible, it is certainly improbable, just considering the leash Taylor will be afforded connected to his cap hits in 2024 and 2025. (The Chiefs do have an out in 2026). He would have to play very badly to be replaced.
So, pencil Taylor in at right tackle for 2024 and 2025. The optimist in me is saying that Suamataia or second-year player Wanya Morris shores up the left tackle position. The other of those two becomes the swing tackle — and maybe offensive tackle isn’t a significant worry as the team is entering the 2025 NFL Draft.
With Creed Humphrey and Trey Smith due up, a pick along the interior makes more sense to me. The Chiefs could also keep the safety train moving, since Justin Reid will become a free agent after 2024. General manager Brett Veach has shown a propensity to look for cheaper options at that position.