Chiefs GM Predicts Active Trade Market in First Round of NFL Draft.

Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach anticipates a highly active first round in the upcoming NFL Draft, suggesting that fans should expect a significant number of trades.

Speaking during his annual pre-draft press conference, Veach emphasized the unpredictability of this year’s draft class. He noted that the overall talent pool lacks clear separation among prospects, which could encourage teams to move around the draft board more aggressively. “This draft should be entertaining,” Veach said, pointing to the likelihood of multiple trades. He explained that many prospects are graded similarly, particularly at positions like offensive tackle, defensive end, and wide receiver. Without a strong group of elite quarterbacks or standout, can’t-miss prospects, teams may feel more flexible in their decision-making. Unlike previous drafts that featured top-tier talents such as Myles Garrett or Will Anderson Jr., this year’s class presents a more balanced field. Veach believes this parity will lead to unexpected selections, with some players projected lower potentially being selected earlier, and vice versa. The Chiefs are well-positioned to be active participants in trade discussions. The organization currently holds two first-round picks—ninth and 29th—joining teams like the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, and Miami Dolphins with multiple selections in the opening round.

Kansas City has a history of making bold draft-day moves under Veach. Notably, the team traded up in the 2022 draft to select cornerback Trent McDuffie. More recently, the Chiefs dealt McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a package of picks, including the 29th overall selection. Veach explained that his draft strategy centers on thorough evaluation and collaboration. With more than 200 prospects on the team’s draft board, the focus is on identifying a core group of highly valued players and finding ways to secure as many of them as possible. Ultimately, Veach believes the structure of this year’s draft—defined by depth rather than star power—will create a dynamic and unpredictable first round, offering both teams and fans an exciting night.