The Chiefs’ defense is loaded with talent, but who will ultimately determine whether Kansas City gets back to championship form? Matt Derrick and Nick Jacobs rank the defenders who must make the biggest impact in 2026, from established stars expected to lead the way to young players poised for breakout seasons. They debate which position groups carry the most pressure, how the Chiefs’ rookie additions fit into Steve Spagnuolo’s defense, and which players could be the difference between another good defense and an elite one.  

The Chiefs&rsquo; defense is loaded with talent, but who will ultimately determine whether Kansas City gets back to championship form? Matt Derrick and Nick Jacobs rank the defenders who must make the biggest impact in 2026, from established stars expected to lead the way to young players poised for breakout seasons. They debate which position groups carry the most pressure, how the Chiefs&rsquo; rookie additions fit into Steve Spagnuolo&rsquo;s defense, and which players could be the difference between another good defense and an elite one. &nbsp;

41 is the Mic Chiefs Podcast is a collaboration between KSHB 41 Sports Producer Nick Jacobs and Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com

41 is the Mic Chiefs Podcast is a collaboration between KSHB 41 Sports Producer Nick Jacobs and Matt Derrick of ChiefsDigest.com

41 is the Mic Chiefs Podcast

4th and 1 is a weekly Kansas City Chiefs podcast produced by staff at 41 Action News. Each week, join host Tod Palmer, Chiefs analyst Nick Jacobs and a series of guests as we talk Kansas City Chiefs and NFL football.

4th&nbsp;and 1 is a weekly Kansas City Chiefs podcast produced by staff at 41 Action News. Each week, join host Tod Palmer, Chiefs analyst Nick Jacobs and a series of guests as we talk Kansas City Chiefs and NFL football.

4th and 1

Matt Derrick and Nick Jacobs rank the defenders who must make the biggest impact in 2026