In a recent 2024 mock draft published by Sports Illustrated writer Conor Orr, the Kansas City Chiefs made a strategic move by trading up to secure wide receiver Adonai Mitchell from Texas. This trade, involving the Arizona Cardinals, not only strengthens the Chiefs' offensive arsenal but also paves the way for a surprising sixth quarterback selection in the first round.

Sensing the Buffalo Bills' interest in the top-tier wide receivers, the Chiefs executed a trade with the Cardinals, offering additional building blocks for Arizona's future. In return, Kansas City obtained insurance for Rashee Rice and another opportunity to rebuild Patrick Mahomes's once fabled receiving corps. As the Chiefs aim for a possible three-peat, they recognize the need for more weapons on their roster.

The draft progressed, and then, at the 32nd pick, the Cardinals surprised everyone by selecting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. from Washington. With this selection, a total of six quarterbacks were chosen in the first round, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Although Kyler Murray's contractual situation poses a challenge, the Cardinals are prioritizing long-term success and now have the option to strengthen their quarterback room. They aim to create a scenario similar to the one with Jordan Love, who is the backup to Green Bay Packers' starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

The inclusion of Adonai Mitchell being projected to the Chiefs is not a new concept in mock drafts. In fact, in this particular mock draft, Mitchell becomes the player most frequently projected to Kansas City during the offseason. However, in most cases, he has been selected at the 32nd pick. In consensus draft prospect rankings, Mitchell is the fifth-ranked wide receiver, raising doubts about him being available at the end of the first round.

To secure Mitchell, the Chiefs made a feasible move to trade up to the 27th pick knowing that he is likely to go around that range. This strategy proves advantageous for the Chiefs, as it prevents them from searching for a trade partner to fulfill their wishlist. The Cardinals, with two first-round picks, found themselves in a position where they could still obtain their desired quarterback, Penix Jr., and acquire an additional pick by making the trade with the Chiefs.

The specifics of the trade involved the Chiefs offering their fourth-round pick (131st overall) to swap positions with the Cardinals, giving Kansas City the equivalent value of a late fourth-rounder. However, according to an AV-based chart, the Chiefs lose the equivalent value of an early sixth-round pick by moving up for Mitchell.

Ultimately, the success of this trade relies on Mitchell's availability and the Chiefs' determination to secure him. With seven offensive tackles already selected by the 27th pick in Orr's mock draft, it is less likely that the Chiefs would trade up for that position unless they have their sights set on Duke's Graham Barton, the sole remaining top-tier tackle.

As the national mock draft picks unfold, it remains to be seen how accurate these projections will be when the actual 2024 NFL Draft takes place. The Chiefs' bold move to acquire Adonai Mitchell showcases their commitment to strengthen their receiving corps and enhance their chances of achieving a historic three-peat.