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Ranking the five best 2026 NFL Draft classes after Week 1: Chiefs rookies shine brightest

Kansas City's newest draft selections delivered an immediate impact during their Monday night victory, earning the Chiefs the top spot among Week 1 rookie classes. Peter Woods stood out by defending against both run and pass plays, even pursuing a running back on a flat route from behind, which gives defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo an opportunity to limit the workload of 32-year-old Chris Jones.

Meanwhile, second-round pass rusher R Mason Thomas recorded a vital sack against Mike McGlinchey using a spin move during a late first-half drive.

The class also flashed talent on other fronts despite mixed health fortunes. First-round cornerback Mansoor Delane was forced out after just three snaps due to a shoulder ailment, though he secured an interception against Courtland Sutton on that same play.

On offense, Day 3 running back Emmett Johnson forced six missed tackles on only two receptions, matching the full-season total produced by Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt across 37 combined catches the prior year.