That Chiefs have spent a large portion of the 2022 NFL offseason rebuilding its receiving corps. Gone are incumbents Tyreek Hill, Demarcus Robinson and Byron Pringle. Enter Marquez Valdez-Scantling, JuJu Smith-Schuster and now, second round draft pick Skyy Moore. Fourth-year player Mecole Hardman is the lone returning receiver and it will be interesting to see how the offense evolves during this revamp.
Here’s what the receiver room SHOULD look like in 2022
- JuJu Smith-Schuster. JuJu is here on a one year “prove it deal.” His productivity was limited in 2021 due to injury but Chiefs brass hope we see more of that 2018 and 2019 JuJu in this receiver-friendly offense with Patrick Mahomes at the helm.
- Mecole Hardman. This is a contract year for Hardman and he needs to step up. He’s the elder statesman at the receiver position and his production increased towards the end of 2021. He’s got a lot to prove and a lot of money hanging in the balance whether it be resigning with the Chiefs or hitting free agency in 2023.
- Skyy Moore. The Chiefs decided against Georgia’ George Pickens in the second round and traded back for Skyy. He’s got great hands and blazing speed and could slide into Hardman’s role should he be allowed to walk next season.
- Marquez Valdez-Scantling. Kansas City was able to land MVS this offseason and the former Packer cited a “winning culture” as a major factor. The Chiefs have never had a threat like this before as MVS is 6’4 and will likely be the receiver that helps stretch the field the most in this offense.
- Josh Gordon. You can’t expect much out of Gordon at this point but the team resigned him for a reason. He only had five catches and a single touchdown a year ago but he’s experienced and there’s always the unfounded hope that he can recapture a little magic for a season.
- Justyn Ross. Very intrigued with this player. Ross was well on his way to being a top-flight receiver after his freshman year at Clemson before it was discovered he had a congenital condition of the spine. His medical situation seems to be under control and he was able to work back in to the Clemson offense last season. Perhaps the Chiefs have identified a diamond in the rough with Ross.
Who gets left out?
- Corey Coleman
- Gehrig Dieter
- Daurice Fountain
- Cornell Powell
