Kansas City Chiefs ‘very high’ on Quentin Johnston in Round 1, trading up possible

The Kansas City Chiefs have become the newest NFL dynasty, winning two Super Bowls thanks to Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid. As roster building around one of the highest-paid NFL players becomes more crucial, the 2023 NFL Draft gains added importance.

Holding the 31st overall pick in the first round, Kansas City will miss out on the best 2023 NFL Draft prospects. However, limited Chiefs draft needs provides the front office with more flexibility to make an aggressive move on draft night.

• Quentin Johnston stats (2022): 60 receptions, 1,069 receiving yards, 17.8 ypc

With only days remaining until Round 1 begins, Kansas City’s biggest needs are wide receiver, defensive end and right tackle. There will be several intriguing edge rushers available and a variety of NFL-ready offensive tackle who can start immediately for a Super Bowl contender. It appears, though, like general manager Brett Veach is targeting someone specifically.

According to Tony Pauline of Pro Football Network, the Chiefs are very high on TCU wide receiver Quentin Johnston and could go after him if he starts to slide.

“If Johnston starts to fall into the 20s, keep an eye on the Kansas City Chiefs. The team is very high on Johnston as they need another big-bodied wideout. Kansas City would be a great fit for Johnston, who would benefit from the structure and professionalism of the organization.”

Tony Pauline on Kansas City Chiefs’ interest in Quentin Johnston

The 2023 NFL Draft class is already divisive, with teams around the league split on nearly every player. Half the league might have Johnston rated as a top-20 talent, while a handful of other clubs don’t view him as a first-round target.

Kansas City is evidently one of the teams highest on Johnston and it’s easy to see why. Unlike wide receiver prospects such as Zay Flowers and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Johnston (6-foot-3) offers prototypical size at wide receiver.

He is one of the best athletes at his position with the size to excel on the outside, make contested catches and even be a threat in the red zone. In combination with his speed and game-changing abilities in the open field, he could become one of the best players from the 2023 NFL Draft.

However, he was extremely inconsistent at TCU and struggled with drops. Pro Football Focus recorded an 11.8 percent drop rate, one of the highest in the class. Furthermore, 688 of his receiving yards last season came in four games with 381 combined receiving yards in the 12 remaining contests.

While Johnston isn’t as safe of a pick as Smith-Njigba or Jordan Addison, he offers the upside to become a No. 1 receiver. With Travis Kelce entering his age-34 season and Tyreek Hill gone, Johnston could be the playmaker the Chiefs need.