The Chiefs wasted no time in adding potential playmakers on offense following the NFL Draft, but their most exciting post-draft additions came on the defensive end with a pair of undrafted linebackers.

Penn State LB Curtis Jacobs and Ohio LB Bryce Houston both look like threats to make the 53-man roster, especially given teh relative lack of depth at the position for Kansas City.

Jacobs, in particular, projects as a valuable special teams contributor and was a surprise to fall outside of the seven rounds. To no one’s surprise, Brett Veach seemingly knows what he’s doing.

The Chiefs found a pair of strong linebacker prospects as undrafted free agents / Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Chiefs Sign Two Dynamic Linebackers as Undrafted Free Agents

Drue Tranquill, Nick Bolton and Leo Chenal are firmly established within the Chiefs’ rotation. However, reinforcements are necessary following Willie Gay Jr.’s departure. Jacobs was a three-year starter at Penn State, bringing the prerequisite experience and athleticism to contribute both defensively and on special teams.

He’s 6’1″, 241 LBs and ran a 4.58 40-yard dash, showcasing strong coverage skills in addition to his run-stopping prowess. If I were to bet on one undrafted free agent making the roster, Jacobs would be my guy.

Houston is a strong prospect as well, a captain at Ohio who led the team with 104 tackles in 2023. It wouldn’t have surprised me to see both of these prospects drafted, so it’s great to see Veach land both of them with undrafted free agent contracts.

Both were among the best defenders in their respective conferences this year. Considering the Chiefs didn’t address the position during the draft itself, it’s great to see the priority placed on it.

We’ll see if either player makes the roster, though I think at least one of them will.