The Kansas City Chiefs have been linked to a number of intriguing names with their prized ninth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. has emerged as the clear favorite to don the red and gold at No.9, while LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane and Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano remain strong possibilities if Kansas City looks to bolster other areas. The Saints, Cowboys, and Dolphins are also in the mix for Bain, adding layers of uncertainty to the top of the board.

Yet, as the draft approaches, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer has spotlighted a compelling “wild card” who could dramatically shift the conversation—especially if Bain and Delane are already off the board. That name is University of Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq.

“I think if Tyson or Tate were there for them I think both of those guys would be possibilities. The corners, certainly with what they’ve lost this offseason with [Trent] McDuffie and [Jaylen] Watson being out the door. I think Delane would be a possibility for ’em,” Breer said on The Breer Report podcast on April 17. “And one wild card name that I think is interesting here: Kenyon Sadiq.”

Sadiq stands out as a unique physical outlier in what many view as a good-but-not-elite wide receiver class. Breer argues that the Oregon product may have a higher ceiling as the focal point of a passing attack than any receiver available, thanks to his rare combination of size, athleticism, and versatility.

“[Sadiq is] a guy who can move all over the formation; you can split him out wide, you can play him in the slot, you can play him in line. There’s a million different things you can do with him and he’s a matchup problem everywhere,” Breer explained. “And so Sadiq would be an interesting name. I think he probably goes somewhere between #9 and #15 or so.”

This isn’t just about adding depth. With Travis Kelce entering what appears to be the final chapter of his legendary career—widely expected to be his last season in 2026 after returning for one more run—Sadiq represents a potential seamless transition. The Chiefs could draft him to learn directly from the future Hall of Famer before stepping into the spotlight as Patrick Mahomes’ next primary security blanket.

Sadiq’s ability to create mismatches is elite. He can line up anywhere, stretch the field with his speed, win in the air, and generate yards after catch. In an offense already tailored for creative weapons, he would immediately give Andy Reid and Mahomes a dynamic chess piece capable of exploiting linebackers and safeties week after week.

If the Chiefs feel they value Sadiq higher than the rest of the league does—particularly given their long-term need at tight end—Breer suggests they might even consider trading down a few spots and still landing him in the middle of the first round. That scenario would allow Kansas City to acquire additional assets while still securing their future at the position.

While selecting an edge rusher or corner at No.9 feels like the more conventional path, especially after recent defensive departures, taking Sadiq could prove to be the sharpest offensive move. In a draft where wide receivers lack true game-breakers, investing early in a tight end who can dominate as both a receiving threat and a versatile weapon might be the ultimate value play.

One pick at No.9. Two words that could define the next era of Chiefs football: Game Over.

An athletic freak is heading to Kansas City, ready to absorb everything from Kelce and then take the torch. If Breer’s instincts are right, the league won’t see it coming—until it’s too late.