The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for a pivotal offseason as they look to enhance their cornerback depth, particularly with key players hitting free agency. Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams are set to explore free agency, while Trent McDuffie’s future remains uncertain. Additionally, there are lingering concerns regarding Kristian Fulton’s health and his performance last season. Although Nohl Williams demonstrated potential, he is still developing as he heads into his second year.
In 2022, the Chiefs revamped their entire defense, notably adding five defensive backs who contributed to their championship run. The cornerback position is crucial, and Kansas City has shown a knack for developing talent over recent seasons. With the upcoming draft, the Chiefs might find themselves in a good position to secure promising corner talent in the second and third rounds.
This draft class features a diverse array of cornerbacks, including those suited for various schemes, such as boundary press-man corners, off-man cornerbacks, and versatile slot players. The flexibility within this class aligns well with the Chiefs’ potential needs going into 2026.
One standout prospect is Brandon Cisse, a 20-year-old cornerback from South Carolina, who stands 6 feet tall and weighs 189 pounds. Known for his explosive physicality and ability to disrupt plays at the catch point, Cisse also displays a strong downhill burst and the skills to support against the run. However, he does have areas that need improvement, such as his consistency in zone coverage and tackling technique.
Cisse played his high school football at Lakewood High School in Sumter, South Carolina, initially entering college as a three-star cornerback at NC State before transferring to South Carolina. Over his college career, he accumulated 65 tackles, two interceptions, and ten passes defended. After declaring for the NFL Draft on December 11, 2025, his stock has risen, with some mock drafts projecting him as a first-round pick.
His physical playstyle is likely to resonate with Chiefs’ defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, who values aggressive, press-man corners. Although there are questions about his on-field production and zone instincts, Cisse’s youth, size, and athleticism present exciting potential for a team looking to bolster their secondary.
Cisse’s ability to thrive in press coverage, alongside his solid movement skills and competitiveness, make him an intriguing option. As the Chiefs evaluate their cornerback needs ahead of the draft, Cisse could emerge as a value pick, offering significant upside if he begins to slip in draft projections.
Overall, the Chiefs look poised to address their cornerback situation effectively this offseason, with opportunities to secure talent that fits both their immediate and long-term defensive strategies. This approach not only strengthens their roster but also reinforces their commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the NFL.