Kansas City, MO – April 27, 2025
The Kansas City Chiefs ignited Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Draft Saturday, executing a blockbuster trade with the Chicago Bears to secure Penn State tight end Tyler Warren at the 10th overall pick, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal, aimed at replacing Travis Kelce, bolsters Kansas City’s offense after a 40-22 Super Bowl LIX loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
The Chiefs sent running back Isiah Pacheco and their 2025 first-round pick (No. 31) to Chicago for the 10th pick and a 2025 sixth-round pick (No. 200). Warren, a 26-year-old standout, recorded 104 receptions, 1,230 yards, and 8 touchdowns in 2024, earning a PFF grade of 85.2 (NFL.com). His Kelce-like production makes him an ideal heir to the 36-year-old, who posted a career-low 823 yards last season.
“Tyler’s our future at tight end,” GM Brett Veach told reporters. With $12.7 million in cap space, Warren’s four-year, $14 million rookie deal fits seamlessly (Spotrac). He joins Noah Gray, offering youth and durability as Kelce faces retirement rumors with a $15.5 million cap hit in 2025.
Chicago, under Ben Johnson, pivoted after missing Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, drafted at No. 9. “Pacheco’s a proven spark,” Johnson said, eyeing the 26-year-old’s 935 rushing yards in 2024 to pair with D’Andre Swift in a dynamic backfield akin to Detroit’s Gibbs-Montgomery duo. The Bears gained a veteran runner and draft capital for their rebuild.
Head coach Andy Reid praised Warren’s versatility: “He’s a playmaker like Travis.” Warren’s blocking (PFF 72.8) and red-zone prowess enhance Mahomes’ arsenal alongside Josh Simmons, drafted at No. 32. With five remaining picks, including No. 95, the Chiefs target safety and wide receiver. This trade cements Kansas City’s resolve to sustain their offensive dominance, fueling a 2025 Super Bowl push.
