The Kansas City Chiefs have built a reputation for developing defensive backs outside the first round, turning late-round picks into reliable contributors. Juan Thornhill, Jaylen Watson, L'Jarius Sneed, and Bryan Cook all fit that mold. Now, the spotlight turns to Chamarri Conner, a 2023 fourth-round pick from Virginia Tech, who finds himself under pressure after the 2025 NFL Draft.

Conner stepped into the starting slot role in 2024 when Trent McDuffie moved outside. However, his performance has raised concerns. Over the past two seasons, Conner has allowed 0.11 EPA per target in the slot, ranking 11th worst among defensive backs with at least 50 slot targets. His 53.8% success rate in coverage was only beaten by 2025 rookie Jacob Parrish. Simply put, Conner struggles to make plays at the catch point in a full-time coverage role.

Enter Jadon Canady, a fourth-round pick from Oregon who also spent time at safety in college. Canady thrived in the slot, finishing his career with 19 passes defensed over his final two seasons. Along with free agent signing Kader Kohou, Canady will immediately challenge for the starting slot job. Conner may not lose snaps entirely, but he could be shifted into more traditional safety alignments—a move the Chiefs began experimenting with last season. However, with young safety Jaden Hicks and free agent addition Alohi Gilman also in the mix, the defensive backfield is crowded. Conner's 1,021 snaps from last season are unlikely to be repeated.

Meanwhile, general manager Brett Veach isn't closing the door on free agency. During an appearance on ESPN's "Pat McAfee Show," Veach was asked about the possibility of signing veteran wide receiver Tyreek Hill, 32, or other available players. The screen showed 18 free agents, including Deebo Samuel, Keenan Allen, Stefon Diggs, former Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed, linebacker Kyle Van Noy, and offensive lineman Taylor Decker. While Veach didn't confirm any moves, the message was clear: the Chiefs are always looking to upgrade.