Chiefs land No. 1-ranked undrafted free agent, according to analyst

The Kansas City Chiefs are coming off what many consider to be a very promising 2025 NFL Draft. The franchise addressed several of its critical needs, specifically on the offensive line, with the first-round selection of Josh Simmons.

Following that pick, the organization focused most of its attention on strengthening its vaunted defense. However, there were some intriguing late-round picks at skill positions that could be of great use to quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Fourth-round selection Jalen Royals has the upside to be a starter on this roster, especially with the uncertain return date of wideout Rashee Rice. 

In addition, running back Brashard Smith is a terrific pick in the seventh round and brings a dynamism to the backfield that should instantly elevate the offense. But, according to CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso, one of the best moves the Chiefs made this offseason was adding former Florida wide receiver Elijhah Badger. 

Trapasso gives a detailed breakdown of why the 23-year-old was the best undrafted free-agent available and an absolute steal for the reigning AFC champions. 

“When you authentically evaluate an entire draft, there are a few prospects you really like who slip through the cracks. It happens to me every year. This year, Badger was that prospect, someone I had a second-round grade on who didn't hear his name called on Thursday, Friday or Saturday…I adored his film. Loved that he played outside on 75% of his snaps in college, where press coverage is more prevalent. 

Badger caught essentially everything in college, with just eight drops on 271 targets. The cherry on top was how effortlessly efficient he was after the catch, routinely bouncing off tacklers and knifing through the defense on screens or comebacks. Badger was credited with 64 missed tackles forced on 181 career snags in the Pac-12 and SEC. Beyond the 49ers, no club loves run-after-the-catch capabilities more than the Andy Reid/Patrick Mahomes Chiefs.”

Over the Chiefs’ chances of continuing their dynasty just increased significantly over the past week. While some of this core is aging, the additions of several high-ceiling players make this roster the AFC favorites once again. Badger is one of those players, and his background suggests that he can be an instant contributor.