Chiefs could see best prospect in NFL Draft fall to them: "Gift for Patrick Mahomes"

There isn't really ever a "perfect" prospect when it comes to a player being available for selection in an NFL Draft. For every Myles Garrett or Peyton Manning there's a JaMarcus Russell or David Carr.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Fernando Mendoza is fully expected to be the first player picked, but he isn't considered a perfect prospect. None of them truly are, but Ohio State's Caleb Downs is thought of by most as the most "pro-ready" prospect.

Could Caleb Downs actually fall to the Chiefs?

Despite that, many mock drafts have him falling farther than should be the case. In a recent mock draft published by FOX Sports' Rob Rang, the Kansas City Chiefs benefit greatly from that. Rang has Downs falling to 9th overall, conveniently where the Chiefs pick.

That would surely make Patrick Mahomes smile. Downs is considered by many to be the best pure football player in the draft this year. In fact, many would have felt the same way about him last year, too, if he had been able to come out early. The two-time Unanimous All-American was named the best defensive back in college football in 2025, one year after leading Ohio State to a national title.

Caleb Downs is considered the most pro-ready prospect in 2026 NFL Draft

Downs' combination of athleticism, speed, instincts in both run and pass defense, and a general command of the football field makes him a can't-miss prospect. The only reason he could fall to Kansas City is the safety position becoming devalued in recent times, in comparison to the rest of football history.

The Chiefs would likely run up to the podium with their Downs selection if he were available. Kansas City got stellar safety play from Bryan Cook in 2025, but he's set for a big payday as an unrestricted free agent. Chamarri Conner didn't quite make an impact this past season like he did in 2024.

The Chiefs getting Downs would be ideal for a team needing to fill the roster with playmakers on both sides of the ball.