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Spagnuolo Overloads Rookies as Chiefs Rebuild Defensive Core

Kansas City increased early offseason volume to speed rookie development after several key 2022 defensive starters left.

Overview

  • Spagnuolo said Thursday he still misses the departed 2022 draftees and acknowledged their loss has both emotional and on-field effects for the defense.
  • The Chiefs lost Trent McDuffie, Leo Chenal, Jaylen Watson and Bryan Cook in the 2026 offseason through trades and free-agent deals, creating clear gaps in depth and leadership.
  • Kansas City used draft picks, including the No. 29 selection obtained in the McDuffie trade, to take cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 6 and defensive tackle Peter Woods at No. 29 to replenish the unit.
  • The coaching staff is intentionally running a high-volume 'feed overload' early in offseason work to force mistakes now and accelerate how quickly new players learn the scheme before easing intensity later.
  • Spagnuolo stressed that football IQ and work ethic will determine long-term success and praised Delane’s competitive path to LSU and Woods’ focus and processing as encouraging signs.