Chiefs select Jaden Hicks in 4th round

The Kansas City Chiefs selected Washington State safety Jaden Hicks in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, 133rd overall.

Hicks was a full-time starter for the Cougars over the last two years, totaling 155 tackles, 13 passes defended, and three interceptions.

The 21-year-old was one of the best defensive backs in the Pac-12 last season and will provide the Chiefs with needed depth in the secondary.

Pre-draft profile

It shouldn't surprise anyone if Hicks has the best career out of all the safety prospects in this class. He comes equipped with the size and tool set to be a high-quality starter in the league. Thanks to his 6-foot-2, 200-pound-plus frame, Hicks is an asset in the box. But that's not all. He's also got the ability to carry receivers and tight ends in coverage from the slot. He may not be a true center fielder safety, but Hicks' versatility from the box to the slot to deep safety makes him an intriguing talent. He is sometimes guilty of playing too hot and may not have the natural range for a deep safety, but he should be a key chess piece in the NFL.