KC Chiefs trade two picks to land their ‘dynamic’ running back in NFL Draft
The Chiefs liked the prospects of their final pick in the NFL Draft so much they traded up to select him. And surrendered an extra pick in the process.
SMU running back Brashard Smith was taken in the seventh-round, No. 228 overall, in a deal with the New England Patriots. The Chiefs gave up their final two slots in the seventh round, Nos. 251 and 257.
Smith started his college career at Miami (Florida) as a wide receiver. He ended it in Dallas as one of the nation’s most productive running backs.
At both positions, Smith excelled. He was a second-team All-ACC wide receiver with the Hurricanes in 2023, and a first-team all-conference running back with the Mustangs last season. He rushed for 1,332 yards, 14 touchdowns and 5.7 yards per carry in 2024.
“I feel like my skill set fits perfect with them,” Smith said. “They’re already dynamic, and I’m a dynamic player. I bring a lot of juice. Any time I’m on the field, I’m going to bring some juice for sure.”
He ranked fourth in FBS with 1,977 all-purpose yards because of his kick return ability.
“He’s an explosive athlete,” said Jason Lamb, the Chiefs’ Southwest area scout. “This guy gets the ball in his hands (and) he makes big plays happen. He’s a lot of fun to watch.
The 5-10, 194-pound Smith was a slot receiver at Miami. The Chiefs scouted him there as well as SMU.
“Guys like that always kind of stand out,” Lamb said.
SMU coach Rhett Lashlee helped make the case for Smith to switch to running back by comparing him to Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco, and Smith looks forward to working with the Kansas City veteran.
“I can learn a lot from him,” Smith said. “He could be a mentor for sure.”
This story was originally published April 26, 2025 at 6:00 PM.