How Chiefs draft picks are performing at training camp

Several members of Kansas City's 2026 draft class are already turning heads in St. Joseph, while injuries and crowded position battles have slowed others.

We’re past the first round of padded practices, and camp is in full swing.

The energy around St. Joseph feels different than previous years. After a historical stretch of three straight Super Bowl appearances, the veterans on this team finally got a break this offseason after everything came crashing down in a 6-11 season.

The vibes are strong, and the spark seems there for the veterans.

Perhaps some of that is coming from the 2026 draft class, who do not have the history of this era to recall. Fresh out of college, the Chiefs are relying on several rookies to play a significant role on this team. Some seem to be breaking through and earning more chances.

Here is an update on the Chiefs' rookie class early on at training camp.

CB Mansoor Delane (6th pick)

We have yet to see Delane put a helmet on in St. Joseph. The former LSU Tiger is dealing with a shoulder injury suffered in May that is keeping him from participating in training camp. He has been relegated to a yellow jersey and is only available to be in the huddle with his teammates to hear the calls before the play starts.

There is mystery around when he will return to practice, but he is losing out on valuable reps that could help get caught up to speed before the season begins. That Delane is in the huddle with the starters tells you they have big plans for playing him immediately. The fact that he isn’t getting a chance to work crucial snaps is not helpful to his development and preparedness for week one.

Hopefully things change soon, and he can start getting work.

DT Peter Woods (29th pick)

The most impactful development of the entire rookie class is what Peter Woods has shown early on in camp.