The 2025 NFL Draft has officially concluded, and that signals the kickoff of rookie minicamp for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs. From May 3 to May 5, the Chiefs’ training facility came alive as 87 players, including 60 tryout hopefuls, participated in drills and orientation sessions. This is the time when undrafted free agents (UDFAs) and late-round picks battle for a spot, making their first impressions count in the hopes of earning a roster spot or practice squad invite.
One of the standout names in this group is tight end Graham Walker—who also happens to be the half-brother of Chiefs superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Walker, the son of Patrick Mahomes Sr., grew up in Vermont with his mother and stepfather. He began his college football journey at Brown University, an Ivy League school, where he had his best season as a freshman, posting 53 receptions for 658 yards and six touchdowns. Over three seasons at Brown, he totaled 127 receptions for 1,496 yards and 15 touchdowns before transferring to Rice University. Initially aiming to play wide receiver, Walker eventually switched to tight end, finishing his final season at Rice with a modest 24 catches for 252 yards.
Despite declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft, Walker went undrafted. Still, he secured an opportunity to prove himself at rookie minicamp with the Chiefs. According to Walker, Mahomes has been supportive and encouraging, acknowledging his progress and potential.
Chiefs HC Andy Reid: “I think Brett and his gang have done a good job of bringing in some great football players, both drafted and undrafted.”
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) May 4, 2025
As rookie minicamp unfolded, the Chiefs’ front office and coaching staff reflected on the draft and their strategy following a tough Super Bowl LIX loss. Head coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in the team’s draft picks, especially after the franchise prioritized improving protection for Mahomes. They selected offensive lineman Josh Simmons from Ohio State in the first round. Simmons was praised for his reliability, having allowed no sacks during the first half of the 2024 season, and only missing extended action due to a knee injury.
The Chiefs didn’t stop there. They also added defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott (63rd overall), defensive end Ashton Gillotte (66th overall), and cornerback Nohl Williams (85th overall). Williams, in particular, was noted for his versatility and leadership, with potential to contribute at corner, safety, or nickel back.
In addition to their draft picks, the Chiefs signed several UDFAs, including wide receiver Elijhah Badger—who led Arizona State in receiving in 2022 and 2023 before transferring to Florida, where he recorded 806 yards. They also picked up tight end Jake Briningstool from Clemson, who accumulated 99 catches, 1,028 yards, and 12 touchdowns in his college career.
In total, Kansas City brought in 16 UDFAs, making the rookie minicamp a highly competitive environment. For Graham Walker and the other 86 prospects, the challenge is clear—prove they belong, stand out in camp, and earn their place on the roster.