One of the most underrated selections of the 2024 NFL Draft was Jaden Hicks.
Hicks was the 11th safety drafted when the Kansas City Chiefs took him in the fourth round. Scouts touted him for his impressive size and athleticism. He made a name for himself at Washington State for his hard hits and willingness to fly around the field to make an impact on every play.
Hicks' coverage skills aren't too shabby either. He can hang with tight ends in man coverage as well as help deep downfield against the long ball. Many were shocked to see him fall to the fourth round as he was projected by most to go in the second round. Some experts even had Hicks as their top safety in the entire class.
As he's done so often during his tenure in Kansas City, GM Brett Veach pounced on the opportunity to get a Day 3 steal. Despite the Chiefs being pretty well set at safety with guys such as Justin Reid and Bryan Cook, Veach couldn't turn down what he hopes Hicks will bring to defense.
While on a media call on Thursday, Veach stated that the rest of the NFL is beginning to take notice of Hicks' game. One of those who Hicks has caught the eye of is former Chiefs and current New Orleans Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu, who called Hicks a "stud" in a text message to Veach.
That's very high praise for Hicks coming from the three-time All-Pro Mathieu. As a 12-year NFL veteran who has played at a high level since his rookie year, Mathieu knows talent when he sees it. If Hicks can come anywhere close to having the career that Mathieu has had, he'll be one of the biggest draft steals in Chiefs history.
Another underrated facet of Veach drafting Hicks is the eye toward the future of the Chiefs' safety position. With Justin Reid entering the final year of his contract and many others ahead of him needing to be re-signed (such as offensive guard Trey Smith and linebacker Nick Bolton), Hicks could be Reid's replacement as one of the team's starting safeties in 2025.
Not only would that save the Chiefs from having to hand out another long-term contract, but there would be no drop off in quality of play. As far as this season goes, with the Chiefs lacking depth at cornerback they could use formations with multiple safeties, giving Hicks a chance for more snaps than he might normally get.
Related: Chiefs GM Brett Veach reveals the real reason behind the trade for TE Peyton Hendershot
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