Patrick Mahomes may soon get a new explosive weapon.
And according to a recent NFL mock draft, that weapon could come straight from USC.

Patrick Mahomes Projected to Land USC Star Makai Lemon in New Mock Draft

The Kansas City Chiefs could dramatically reshape their offense in the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting USC star wide receiver Makai Lemon, according to a new mock draft projection.

Lemon, the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner, has emerged as one of the top offensive prospects entering the draft after a standout career with the USC Trojans.

In a recent projection from USA Today Sports, the Chiefs are expected to select Lemon with the No. 9 overall pick, potentially giving quarterback Patrick Mahomes a dynamic new playmaker.

A Major Boost for the Chiefs’ Offense

Kansas City is coming off a disappointing 6–11 season, a rare struggle for a franchise that has dominated the league in recent years.

The Chiefs’ offense faced multiple challenges during the 2025 season, including a torn ACL suffered by Patrick Mahomes, which significantly impacted the team’s performance.

Wide receiver production was also inconsistent throughout the season.

Adding Lemon could help fix that problem immediately.

His ability to create separation, run precise routes, and gain yards after the catch makes him an ideal fit for Kansas City’s fast-paced offensive scheme.

Lemon’s Impressive USC Career

During his three seasons with USC, Lemon established himself as one of college football’s most exciting receivers.

His career totals include:

137 receptions
2,008 receiving yards
14 touchdowns

In his final season alone, Lemon recorded:

79 catches
1,156 yards
11 touchdowns

He also surpassed 100 receiving yards in five games during the 2025 season, showcasing his ability to dominate opposing defenses.

One of his biggest performances came against Northwestern, where he exploded for 161 receiving yards and a touchdown in a 38–17 victory.

Perfect Fit for Patrick Mahomes

If Kansas City drafts Lemon, he could quickly become a key weapon alongside veteran tight end Travis Kelce, who is expected to return for his 14th NFL season.

The Chiefs have also strengthened their offense by adding Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III, giving Mahomes another powerful option in the backfield.

Lemon’s skill set could complement those players perfectly.

His speed and route-running ability make him particularly dangerous in an offense that thrives on quick passes, big plays, and yards after the catch.

For a quarterback like Mahomes, who excels at extending plays and finding open receivers downfield, Lemon could become a major asset.

Chiefs Hold Multiple First-Round Picks

Kansas City could have multiple opportunities to reshape its roster during the draft.

Along with the projected No. 9 overall pick, the Chiefs also hold the No. 29 selection.

In the same mock draft, the Chiefs are projected to use that later pick on Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy, strengthening their secondary.

If those projections become reality, Kansas City could add two major contributors on both sides of the ball.

A Potential Turning Point for Kansas City

After an injury-filled and disappointing 2025 season, the Chiefs are looking to return to championship contention.

Landing a dynamic receiver like Makai Lemon could be a major step toward that goal.

And if the mock draft prediction proves accurate, Patrick Mahomes might soon have one of the most exciting young playmakers in the NFL at his disposal.