Kansas City, Sa – May 3, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs have unearthed a potential gem, selecting UCF tight end Dylan Driggers at No. 216 in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, sources told ESPN. The late-round pick sparks excitement as a sleeper who could reshape the Chiefs’ future.
Driggers, once a projected Day 2 talent, fell to the final round due to concerns over his speed (4.82-second 40-yard dash) and blocking skills, per Pro Football Focus. Yet, his 2024 stats—58 receptions, 614 yards, and 6 touchdowns—showcase a reliable pass-catcher with soft hands and red-zone prowess.
The Chiefs, reeling from a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss, face uncertainty at tight end. Travis Kelce, now 35, posted under 700 yards in 2024, and his contract expires in 2025. While Noah Gray holds the TE2 spot, Driggers offers long-term potential as a developmental prospect.
Driggers’ tape reveals a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage, a trait that could thrive under Andy Reid’s play-calling. His 6-foot-4, 245-pound frame mirrors Kelce’s early build, drawing comparisons to the Chiefs legend who was a third-round steal in 2013.
GM Brett Veach’s knack for late-round magic shines here. With Kelce mentoring Driggers, the rookie could emulate Kelce’s rise from a raw talent to an All-Pro. X buzzed with optimism, one fan calling Driggers “the next Kelce in the making” for his route-running finesse.
The move carries risks. Driggers’ blocking deficiencies (62.1 PFF grade) and lack of speed may limit his early role, especially with veterans like Dalton Schultz at mini-camp. Still, his catch radius and football IQ make him a project worth developing.
Driggers’ addition gives the Chiefs flexibility. With Patrick Mahomes leading an offense featuring Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy, a young tight end could stretch defenses. The 14th-ranked passing attack (240 yards per game) gains a future weapon.
Chiefs Kingdom, your dynasty endures. Dylan Driggers’ selection could prove a masterstroke, echoing Kelce’s legacy. As training camp looms, Kansas City dreams of another Super Bowl with this sleeper ready to rise.
