The Kansas City Chiefs just finished their 2026 Draft, and rookies might earn the franchise's trust to get a starting role. Here are the existing players who might be feeling the most pressure to keep their spots on the roster.

Brashard Smith’s Rookie Play Last Year Didn't Help In Solidifying His Position In 2026

Last year's 228th pick in the seventh round, Brashard Smith, had a very small role in his first year with the Chiefs. Even though he changed positions from wide receiver to running back in college, he only got 44 carries all season in the NFL.

Much of that production came in non-competitive moments, such as 14 during Week 7 blowout win over the Las Vegas Raiders and 12 in the season finale loss to the same opponent.

Now that the Chiefs have signed free agents Kenneth Walker III and Emari Demercado and drafted Emmett Johnson, there is a lot of competition. Smith will likely have to find a new way to help the team if he wants to keep his spot.

Kevin Knowles’ Cornerback Spot Is Under Threat After the Chiefs' 2026 Draft

Kevin Knowles appeared in 13 games for the Kansas City last season after making his jump from the practice squad in October. During the Chiefs’ Thanksgiving Day clash with the Dallas Cowboys, the 22-year-old rookie flashed on special teams, making a strong coverage play that pinned Dallas deep at their own three-yard line.

But this season, the Kansas City Chiefs drafted LSU Tigers' Mansoor Delane and Oregon Ducks' Jadon Canady. So, both rookies are expected to start right away in 2026.

Along with them, with veterans Kristian Fulton and Nohl Williams already fighting for spots, Knowles finds himself in an overcrowded roster.

Even though the team likes him, there is a chance that the new arrivals might force him out of the lineup. 

Chris Oladokun’s Quarterback Role Is At Risk

After star quarterback Patrick Mahomes got injured in Week 15, Chris Oladokun finally got his chance to play. However, he struggled between weeks 15 and 17 to move the ball. He only covered 235 yards and recorded 1 touchdown.

In this year's draft, the Chiefs focused on the quarterback position. While Mahomes is still recovering, the team traded for Justin Fields and added two other young quarterbacks, Jake Haener and Garrett Nussmeier. 

Although Oladokun knows the team’s plays better than the newcomers, the sudden arrival of three new players makes it very unlikely he will keep his job.

Nikko Remigo Stands on Shaky Ground

Nikko Remigio’s 2025 campaign was a quiet year for him offensively. Despite logging time in 14 games, he managed just a single catch for 21 yards and failed to find the end zone.

He further struggled to provide that explosive spark in the return game, too, averaging 7.6 yards on 25 punt returns and 25.6 yards on 29 kick returns. Then came a knee injury late in the season while he was trying to find his footing.

The Kansas City Chiefs will push to bounce back after a 6-11 season. With the fresh draft picks and new signees from free agency, it's time to see how they make changes in their roster.

What are your thoughts on these players' chances this season? Drop in the comments.

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Written by

Aaindri Thakuri

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar