Kansas City traded Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams, and then Jaylen Watson left and also signed with the Rams. The team’s current starting corners (Kristian Fulton and Kader Kohou) are slated to be free agents after the season. With pick 40, the Chiefs would like to add a starter, but if they get depth for 2025 and a starter in 2026, that’s a win. That’s what they are hoping for with Chris Johnson.

The San Diego State corner was a second-team All-American last year for the Aztecs. Opposing quarterbacks managed a passer rating of just 16.1 when they targeted him last season, thanks to going 18/43 with no touchdowns and four interceptions. Johnson is 6’0 and 195 pounds, runs a 4.4-second forty, and sports a 38″ vertical. It’s nearly impossible to beat him over the top.

The most important trait for cornerbacks is how fluid their hips are, and Johnson’s are like river water. He attacks the ball on every throw, and terrifies offensive coordinators because his risks typically pay off. His smaller frame makes him susceptible to being bullied by bigger receivers, which affects contested balls. Anyone can put on weight, though. Johnson’s instincts can’t be taught.