Some first-round picks fill obvious roster holes and project as every-down starters immediately. Others are viewed as long-term projects who may need time to develop during their rookie seasons.
Immediate Contributors
Mansoor Delane, Kansas City Chiefs
Teams do not trade into the top 10 for a non-quarterback unless they believe he can contribute immediately. Delane is expected to assume the CB1 role on the Chiefs’ defense right away.
2025 third-round pick Nohl Williams is a promising option opposite Delane, but the sixth overall pick will be tasked with handling the most difficult assignments in a defense that is expected to increase its man coverage usage. The Chiefs ranked in the top 10 in man coverage rate every season from 2020-24 but fell to 19th in 2025 (20.9%), largely due to a lack of talent in the secondary.
The Chiefs have just one cornerback on their roster who logged more than 500 snaps last season — Kaiir Elam, who earned a 56.3 PFF coverage grade across his time with the Cowboys and Titans. Delane represents a necessary upgrade.