The Kansas City Chiefs wrapped up their final spring practice on Thursday, marking the end of Organized Team Activities (OTAs) and minicamp. While late May and early June practices offer limited insight into the upcoming season, they have revealed a brewing battle in the Chiefs’ wide receiver room that could lead to a surprising roster cut.
Fierce Competition in the Wide Receiver Room
Over the past three weeks, the Chiefs’ wide receiver competition has taken center stage. Rookie Jalen Royals and fourth-year receiver Tyquan Thornton have turned heads with standout performances, showcasing their speed, route-running, and playmaking ability. Meanwhile, veterans like Skyy Moore, Nikko Remigio, and JuJu Smith-Schuster are also vying for roster spots, setting the stage for a heated battle in training camp.
However, one name stands out as potentially being on the chopping block: JuJu Smith-Schuster. Despite his experience and familiarity with the Chiefs’ system, the 28-year-old veteran could find himself on the outside looking in when the 2025 roster is finalized.
JuJu Smith-Schuster’s Precarious Position
This offseason, the Chiefs re-signed Smith-Schuster to a one-year, $1.4 million contract, a low-risk move to retain a reliable depth receiver who knows Andy Reid’s offensive scheme inside and out. Over two seasons with Kansas City, Smith-Schuster has been productive when healthy, catching 75% of his targets (96/127) for 1,164 yards and five touchdowns. His run-blocking ability, graded between 55.0 and 60.0 by Pro Football Focus (PFF), has also been a valuable asset in the Chiefs’ ground game.
However, Smith-Schuster’s injury history raises concerns. Last season, he missed time due to hamstring and thigh injuries, and prior to joining Kansas City, he suffered two concussions and a significant shoulder injury. At 28, staying healthy could prove challenging, especially in a physically demanding role.
Adding to his challenges, Smith-Schuster does not contribute on special teams, a factor that often tips the scales for roster decisions. With younger, more versatile players like Royals and Thornton emerging, Smith-Schuster’s path to securing a spot on the 53-man roster has grown increasingly difficult.
Rising Stars Threaten Smith-Schuster’s Roster Spot
Jalen Royals, a rookie with explosive potential, has impressed coaches with his ability to stretch the field and make contested catches. Tyquan Thornton, now in his fourth year, appears to be hitting his stride, showcasing the speed and agility that made him a high draft pick. Both players offer upside and special teams contributions, giving them an edge over Smith-Schuster in the eyes of the coaching staff.
Other receivers, including Skyy Moore and Nikko Remigio, are also in the mix, further intensifying the competition. Moore’s development and Remigio’s versatility make them strong candidates to stick on the roster, potentially at Smith-Schuster’s expense.
What’s Next for Smith-Schuster and the Chiefs?
As the Chiefs head into training camp, all eyes will be on the wide receiver battle. Smith-Schuster’s experience and reliability make him a valuable asset, but his injury concerns and lack of special teams involvement could ultimately cost him a roster spot. If Royals and Thornton continue their impressive trajectory, the Chiefs may opt for youth and potential over veteran stability.