Chiefs, Saints eye Top 10 draft trades; Pickens signs franchise tag

Pickens secured; trade-ups loom.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Apr 231 min read

Kansas City ChiefsNFL

What happened: NFL Network's Draft Kickoff discussed Kansas City Chiefs and New Orleans Saints potentially trading up into the Top 10 picks of the 2026 NFL Draft. Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens is signing his franchise tag, resolving his contract status.

Why it matters: Pickens' tag signature keeps the Steelers' top receiver for 2026 at $12.6 million, stabilizing their offense after a 11-6 playoff season. Chiefs (12-5, pick #29) and Saints (9-8, pick #16) trading up could target elite prospects like QBs or edge rushers, shifting draft and roster trajectories.

By the numbers: 2026 NFL Draft projected Top 10: 1.Giants,2.Browns,3.Patriots,4.Titans,5.Bills,6.Jaguars,7.LasVegas,8 Panthers,9.Colts,10.Rams. Saints: +550. Pickens 2025 stats: 92 rec, 1,350 yds, 10 TD. Steelers 2025: 11-6, AFC North.

What to watch: Watch for official trade announcements and Pickens' signing confirmation ahead of Thursday's draft.

Sources

@RapSheet Apr 23, 6:36 PM ET

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Chiefs, Saints eye Top 10 draft trades; Pickens signs franchise tag

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