NFL Draft Favorites: The Athletic's Dane Brugler Shares His Top 3 Chiefs Fits

The draft expert joins KCSN's BJ Kissel to identify the blue-chip prospects who could redefine the Chiefs' roster.

Live from the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, BJ Kissel talks with the man behind “The Beast” himself, Dane Brugler, to pinpoint which prospects should be on every Chiefs fan’s radar.

With Kansas City picking at No. 9—a premium spot they haven’t occupied in years—the conversation focused on elite playmakers and high-IQ defenders.

Brugler’s “Perfect Fit” trio for the Chiefs:

• Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State): A prolific route runner with long strides and “ball-winner” traits. Brugler noted Tate caught 12 of his 14 contested targets this year and averaged 33 yards per touchdown, making him the vertical threat the Chiefs’ offense has been craving.

• Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State): While taking a safety in the top 10 is rare, Brugler calls Downs a “different type of player.” Citing Matt Patricia’s praise that Downs is the “smartest player he’s ever coached,” Brugler argues his ability to disguise coverages is a dream match for Steve Spagnuolo’s scheme.

• TJ Parker (EDGE, Clemson): A projected early second-round target for a team desperate for front-seven help. Brugler highlighted Parker’s “full motor” and speed-to-power conversion as traits that fit the Chiefs’ defensive identity.

Brugler also emphasized that this draft is particularly deep at Edge Rusher and Tight End, suggesting the Chiefs could find significant value in the middle rounds (4th–5th) even if they go in a different direction with their first-round pick.