QB1 Patrick Mahomes was quick to share his honest reaction to the Kansas City Chiefs‘ first day in the 2026 NFL draft. The Chiefs had a disappointing 2025 season, finishing 6-11 and missing the playoffs. However, this poor record presented them significant draft capital to select LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane (ninth overall) and defensive end Peter Woods (29th) from Clemson in the first round. Hence, Mahomes couldn’t contain his excitement as he shared a candid reaction to both draft picks.

“Let’s get it! 💪🏽,” Mahomes wrote on X after the Delane selection and then tweeted, “💪🏽💪🏽,” as a reaction to the Woods pickup.

Both picks help out the Chiefs’ defense immediately, as they traded All-Pro corner Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams last month. Similarly, the other Chiefs starting cornerback, Jaylen Watson, signed with the Rams in free agency. Hence, Delane, who allowed a completion percentage of just 27.8%, the third best in FBS, will instantly bolster a depleted secondary and present defensive coordinator Kevin Spagnolo another star corner to develop.

Similarly, Kansas City needed to overhaul its defensive line with tackle Chris Jones nearing the twilight of his career as he turns 32 in July. So, adding Tigers defensive end Peter Woods is a smart, safe move. Woods made first-team All-ACC and scored two touchdowns as a short-yardage running back while finishing with 30 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, and two sacks.

With these two picks, the Chiefs have certainly maximized the first day of the 2026 draft, prompting Patrick Mahomes to welcome his new teammates to the roster. Mahomes’ excitement also stems from the fact that he has been pushing towards his recovery after suffering a season-ending knee injury against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11, as revealed by head coach Andy Reid.

Chiefs head coach reveals the latest update on Patrick Mahomes’ injury

Before the Chiefs had a solid first day of the NFL draft, the Kansas City faithful were handed a crucial update about QB1 Patrick Mahomes. ShowTime injured his ACL and LCL in his left knee on December 14 against the Chargers, effectively eliminating the Chiefs from playoff contention. Mahomes then underwent surgery in Dallas with orthopedist Dr. Dan Cooper and began his rehab almost immediately back in Kansas City, where he has worked out all offseason.

As his recovery continues, head coach Andy Reid revealed that Mahomes has been doing great, but raised caution about being careful with his injury management.

“So he goes to the meetings. He can lift, do all that. Rehab. That’s the phase he’s in right now,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “We’ll just see. Kind of play it by ear. See where he’s at. He’s doing great, but we’ve just got to be smart with this thing.”

While Patrick Mahomes expressed his desire for a Week 1 return, these comments by coach Reid highlight how the Chiefs could continue with a more conservative approach for their QB1. If this stands true, recently acquired backup quarterback Justin Fields could be seen starting the season as the Chiefs’ signal-caller.

With the first day of the 2026 NFL Draft behind them, the Kansas City Chiefs have taken clear steps toward rebuilding their defense. Patrick Mahomes’ enthusiastic reaction to both picks signals his confidence in the team’s direction while continues to recover from a season-ending ACL and LCL injury.