The Indiana Hoosiers set a program record by having eight players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. After the draft, several other former Hoosiers signed with NFL franchises as undrafted free agents. Among that group was former Indiana offensive lineman Kahlil Benson, who signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on May 4 after not hearing his name called on draft night.
Not much was expected of Benson when he first got to Kansas City. He was an undrafted rookie just looking to put forth a competitive training camp and maybe make the 53-man roster as a depth piece. But that's not how it went.
Instead, Benson was nabbed as Kansas City's starting left tackle for Week 1. He made his NFL debut on Monday night against the Broncos, and put forth an eye-popping performance that has everyone talking.
A star is born: Kahlil Benson shines in NFL debut
Benson getting the starting nod in Kansas City is a big deal. It marks the first time under Andy Reid (he took over in 2013) that the Chiefs have started an undrafted free agent in Week 1. So not only did Benson make franchise history, but he was immediately thrust into a prominent role protecting one of the NFL's top quarterbacks in Patrick Mahomes.
But after seeing how he performed in the season opener on Monday night, it's clear that Benson was well-prepared for the tall responsibilities instantly asked of him. According to PFF, Benson was on the field for 34 pass-blocking snaps. He didn't allow a single pressure.
In addition to his exceptional pass-blocking performance, Benson was also great in the run game. He played a vital role in helping pave the way for Kansas City rushers to rack up 220 yards, 5.8 yards per carry, and a pair of touchdowns against a stingy Denver defense. The Chiefs' offense shined all night long and won by a score of 31-10 in a game that was never in doubt.
Kahlil Benson's NFL debut is more impressive than you think
What makes Benson's debut even more impressive is the fact that he got his start with the Chiefs during a tryout back in the spring. He was competing alongside 75+ players for an outside shot to make the roster, and eventually earned his way into a contract as an undrafted free agent.
Furthermore, Benson never played a single snap at left tackle in college. He appeared in all 16 games and made 12 starts at right tackle last season for Indiana, and his efforts played a key role in the Hoosiers' National Championship season. He is now holding down the Chiefs' left tackle spot, and is thriving while doing so.
But despite not hearing his name called on draft night, Benson's strong first impression shows just how deep and talented IU's roster was last season. Fernando Mendoza is the clear headliner of Indiana's 2026 NFL Draft class. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner was drafted No. 1 overall by the Raiders, and will be one of the most closely-followed players in the entire league this season. With other players like Omar Cooper Jr, D'Angelo Ponds, and Elijah Sarratt, Indiana's 2026 NFL Draft class features plenty of big-name talent. But guys like Benson continue to show that Curt Cignetti knows exactly what he's doing.
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