DT Draft Star Kenneth Grant Wants to Play for Chiefs as Starter

Kansas City, MO – April 4, 2025

Kenneth Grant, the Michigan defensive tackle lighting up the 2025 NFL Draft buzz, has his sights set on Kansas City—and he’s not shy about it. The 6’4”, 339-pound standout told reporters at a pre-draft event Thursday he wants to suit up for the Chiefs as a starter, eyeing a spot next to legend Chris Jones to bolster a D-line craving youth after Super Bowl LIX.

“I’d love to play for the Chiefs—start day one,” Grant said, per ESPN’s draft coverage. “Chris Jones is the best, and I want to learn from him, then take over when it’s time.” The National Champion Wolverine, who racked up 8 tackles for loss and 4 sacks in 2024, brings a rare size-speed combo—think sub-5.0 40-yard dash—that’s got Chiefs Kingdom drooling. With Derrick Nnadi and Tershawn Wharton gone, and Calais Campbell, 38, on a one-year deal, Grant sees his shot.

The Chiefs’ D-line isn’t hurting—Jones is an All-Pro beast (5 sacks in 2024), and Campbell’s a vet rock—but depth’s thin beyond Jerry Tillery and Mike Pennel. Grant’s no pipe dream; mocked as a late first-rounder (PFF ranks him No. 28), he’s within KC’s reach at No. 31—or via a trade-up. “I can stop the run, rush the passer—whatever they need,” he boasted. Fans on X are hyped: “Grant with Jones? QBs are toast!” one tweeted.

Starting right away might be tough—Jones and Campbell lock the top spots for 2025—but Grant’s got the tools to rotate in, then claim a gig when Campbell’s deal ends. “He’s a freak—Chiefs need that juice,” an AFC scout said. With 10 picks in 2025, including extra ammo from a Patriots swap, Brett Veach could pounce. Grant to KC? It’s a match fans—and Grant—dream of.