Steve Spagnuolo gets a new defensive look after three bold Chiefs draft picks

Woods’ first-step quickness stands out on tape. He has a way of closing space in a hurry, playing low and getting into guards before quarterbacks even settle into their dropbacks.

Kansas City director of college scouting Ryan Nutt pointed directly to that trait after the draft. The Chiefs wanted more speed and disruption up front because the defense struggled with extended drives last season.

That’s where Woods can make an immediate difference. Interior pressure tends to break down timing quicker than edge rushes since it collapses the pocket from the inside. With both Jones and Woods pushing upfield, Spagnuolo has options to really compress passing lanes.

R. Mason Thomas brings needed speed off the edge

Kansas City doubled down on its defensive focus by taking R. Mason Thomas at No. 40, adding a different kind of speed rusher to the mix.

Thomas isn’t just another body in the rotation. He brings flexibility, acceleration, and closing speed off the edge, giving Kansas City a new look at defensive end.

His value shows up when Spagnuolo dials up pressure packages. The Chiefs can use Thomas in obvious passing situations to keep George Karlaftis fresh and force tackles to adjust to a different pace coming off the line.

Kansas City managed just 35 sacks in 2025, which wasn’t enough for a defense that still had coverage talent and a creative coordinator. Thomas gives the front more juice when the down and distance favours the rush.

The Chiefs’ 2026 draft class was built around third downs

Last season, Kansas City’s third-down defense ranked near the bottom of the league, allowing conversions at a rate of 43.56 percent. That stat speaks louder than any draft grade in explaining why they made the picks they did.

Despite giving up just 195.8 passing yards per game, the problem was in getting off the field when it mattered most. The defence had its moments but struggled to finish possessions with stops.

Delane helps the coverage hold longer. Woods helps the pocket collapse faster. Thomas helps the rush arrive with more speed.

The plan around these three players was clear and gives Spagnuolo more options beyond relying on one star or one pressure package to solve every down.

Kansas City went into this draft knowing exactly what they wanted to fix. Delane, Woods, and Thomas give Spagnuolo a younger group built around speed and flexibility rather than filling holes just for depth’s sake.

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