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The Kansas City Chiefs have some unfinished business heading into the 2025 NFL season. Kansas City fell short of a three-peat in 2024, losing Super Bowl 59 in epic fashion against Philadelphia. The Chiefs know that they have limited time left with tight end Travis Kelce, so the team will be extra motivated to win it all in 2025.
Thankfully the Chiefs have a loaded roster that is ready to compete right away. Kansas City made smart additions this offseason to reinforce the offensive line and defensive secondary. They also added depth at important skill positions.
The Chiefs got most of their improvement from a talented rookie class during the 2025 NFL Draft. Kansas City added players at key positions of need that should help solidify the roster for years to come. Now they have everything they need to get back to the playoffs and make another run at the Super Bowl.
Kansas City will need every player on the roster to play at their best if they want to return to the Super Bowl. They may even need some significant contributions from some of their new players.
But who are some of the unsung heroes on the Chiefs?
Below we will explore three hidden gems on the 2025 Chiefs roster that every fan should know about.
Hidden gems do not always need to be starters. They can simply perform a specific function on their team at a high level. That is exactly what I envision for Brashard Smith’s professional career.
Andy Reid loves having a dedicated third-down back who can catch the ball out of the backfield.
The Chiefs used Jerick McKinnon in this role for several seasons before the team parted ways with him after the 2023 season. Kareem Hunt has been filling that role ever since.
Hunt’s contract is up after the 2025 season, which could pave the way for Smith to take over that third-down back role.
The Chiefs drafted Smith in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Smith started his collegiate career at Miami but transferred to SMU for his senior season. He dominated during the 2024 season, logging an impressive 1,977 all-purpose yards. His production included 39 receptions for 327 yards and four touchdowns.
Smith is also a dangerous kick returner, allowing him to provide additional value.
It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs use Smith during training camp and the preseason.
At worst, I imagine the Chiefs will use Smith as a core special teamer and kick returner during his rookie season. If Hunt misses any time, Smith will be ready to contribute as a third-down back as well.
His role could easily expand in 2026.
The Chiefs already have several dangerous weapons at wide receiver. But that did not stop them from adding WR Jalen Royals during the draft.
Royals is another Chiefs rookie who could see his...
