The Kansas City Chiefs have been one of the most dominant teams in the NFL over the past five years, winning three Super Bowls and consistently competing at the highest level. However, the team is undergoing significant changes this offseason, with the departure of defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi marking the end of an era.
Nnadi, who played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ defensive line, has signed with the New York Jets, officially wiping out Kansas City’s entire 2018 draft class. The move underscores the team’s ever-evolving roster strategy and highlights the challenges of maintaining a championship-caliber squad.
The End of the 2018 Draft Class
The Chiefs’ 2018 draft class, selected by General Manager Brett Veach, once held promise but has now been completely erased from the team’s roster. The class included:
- Breeland Speaks (DE, Round 2): Speaks was expected to be a key pass rusher, but he struggled with consistency and was released before the 2020 season.
- Derrick Nnadi (DT, Round 3): The most successful pick from this class, Nnadi was a key run-stopper and played a pivotal role in the team’s three Super Bowl runs.
- Dorian O’Daniel (LB, Round 3): Primarily a special teams player, O’Daniel never carved out a major role on defense and eventually departed.
- Armani Watts (S, Round 4): A promising young safety whose potential was limited by injuries.
- Tremon Smith (CB/WR, Round 6): Initially drafted as a cornerback, Smith later transitioned to wide receiver and served as a return specialist.
- Kahlil McKenzie (DT/OG, Round 6): Originally a defensive tackle, McKenzie was converted to offensive guard but failed to make an impact.
Now, with Nnadi’s exit, none of these players remain on the roster, highlighting the high turnover in the NFL.
Nnadi’s Impact and the Void Left Behind
Nnadi was one of the most dependable defensive tackles in Kansas City, accumulating 233 tackles and 5.0 sacks over seven seasons. His presence as a run defender was invaluable, especially in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl-winning campaigns. He was also remarkably durable, missing just two games in his career.
His departure to the Jets signals a shift in Kansas City’s defensive approach. With Chris Jones still anchoring the defensive line, the Chiefs must now find a replacement to fill Nnadi’s role. Whether they address this in the draft or free agency remains to be seen.
What’s Next for the Chiefs?
Kansas City has been proactive in reshaping its roster, already making key moves in free agency. However, the loss of Nnadi creates an urgent need on the defensive line. Veach and head coach Andy Reid will likely look to the upcoming NFL Draft to find a long-term replacement.
As the Chiefs prepare for another Super Bowl run, their ability to adapt and develop new talent will be crucial. Despite the changes, the team remains one of the league’s top contenders, but filling the void left by Nnadi will be a top priority.