Jaden Hicks, a Kansas City Chiefs defensive back drafted in 2024, is on track for a significant role in the team's secondary due to the offseason departure of veteran Justin Reid. Hicks showcased his potential during the latter half of his rookie season, finishing with 29 tackles, three for loss, five pass deflections, and three interceptions. His growth is crucial for the Chiefs as they navigate the upcoming season without a key experience in Reid, and head coach Steve Spagnuolo's scheme will likely emphasize his skills.

The Houston Texans have made a strategic move in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Jayden Higgins from Iowa State with the 34th overall pick. With Stefon Diggs leaving in free agency and Tank Dell recovering from a knee injury, the Texans recognized the urgent need to bolster their receiving corps. Higgins, known for his impressive size, speed, and ball skills, is set to enhance the team's offensive capabilities as they aim for dominance in the AFC South.

Higgins mirrors the playing style of fellow receiver Nico Collins, making the duo a formidable challenge for opposing defenses. His ability to stretch the field and excel in contested catches positions him as a key asset for the Texans as they look to improve their aerial attack and compete at a higher level in the upcoming season.

In considering potential wide receiver options for the Green Bay Packers in the 2025 NFL draft, Jayden Higgins from Iowa State stands out significantly. At 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds, he brings a robust athletic profile, evidenced by a relative athletic score of 9.61 and a 4.47-second 40-yard dash. Higgins has accumulated over 2,900 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns over three collegiate seasons, showcasing his capability to produce at a high level.

Notably, Higgins excels in converting first downs, ranking in the top 7% of all FBS receivers in this metric. With the Packers looking to fill future gaps, especially with receivers like Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson approaching free agency, Higgins could emerge as a long-term solution and enhance their offensive potency.

Justin Reid has solidified his position as a cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs' defense since joining the franchise in 2022. As a key player in their recent Super Bowl victories, Reid's performance has been impressive, accumulating 265 total tackles, four sacks, and three interceptions. With the impending free agency, retaining Reid should be a top priority for the Chiefs to maintain their defensive strength going into the 2025 season. His experience and skill set make him irreplaceable, especially considering the potential gap left by his exit.

Although Jaden Hicks, a promising rookie safety, is on the roster, his statistics fall short compared to Reid's proven track record. The Chiefs need to ensure that they allocate sufficient funds to keep Reid, who previously earned $10.5 million. Given that Reid is just 28 years old, he has plenty left to contribute to the team and continuing his career in Kansas City seems essential for both parties.