Chiefs Projected to Target Elite Pass-Rusher James Pearce in 2025 NFL Draft
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — April 17, 2025
With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves in an unusual position—reigning AFC champions with very little room for error. Despite winning three Super Bowls in five seasons, the expectations in Kansas City remain sky-high, and the pressure is on to keep the championship window wide open.
In a recent mock draft published by USA Today Network, veteran sports columnist Mike Freeman made a bold prediction: the Chiefs will use their No. 31 overall pick to select Tennessee Volunteers pass-rusher James Pearce Jr., one of the most explosive defensive prospects in this year’s draft class.
“The mission is simple: make the defense more explosive,” Freeman wrote. “Allow Patrick Mahomes the freedom of not always having to save the day.”
That statement underscores what many analysts have been saying—while Mahomes continues to carry the offense with poise and brilliance, it’s the defense that could take the Chiefs from great to nearly unbeatable. Adding a game-changing edge rusher like Pearce could elevate Kansas City’s already strong unit to elite status.
Pearce, who racked up double-digit sacks and tackles for loss during his final season at Tennessee, is widely regarded for his lightning-quick first step, relentless motor, and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. At 6-foot-5 and around 245 pounds, his size and athleticism make him a perfect fit for a defensive scheme that thrives on speed and pressure.
While the Chiefs already boast a talented group of edge rushers—including George Karlaftis and Charles Omenihu—the addition of Pearce could give defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo even more flexibility and depth in the trenches.
Kansas City has never shied away from bold draft decisions, especially under general manager Brett Veach. With the AFC more competitive than ever and teams constantly looking to dethrone the Chiefs, this year’s draft could play a pivotal role in maintaining their dynasty.
Whether or not the Chiefs ultimately select Pearce remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—they’ll need to make every pick count if they want to return to the Super Bowl for a fourth consecutive year.
The countdown to the draft continues, and Chiefs Kingdom will be watching closely.