Key Takeaways:
– Kansas City Chiefs sign undrafted wide receiver Jaaron Hayek while releasing Reggie Brown.
– Chiefs looking to deepen their receivers unit.
– Reggie Brown may pursue other franchise tryouts.
After wrapping up their three-day rookie minicamp, the Kansas City Chiefs have been making adjustments to their roster. Right off the bat, the Chiefs penned a new deal with undrafted wide receiver Reggie Brown from James Madison University. However, he was also the first to be released.
Jaaron Hayek Takes on Chiefs Roster Position
The Chiefs announced on May 7, the signing of wide receiver Jaaron Hayek who was among the nearly 40 players invited for minicamp trials. This move by the Chiefs corresponds with the cutting of Brown, thus confirming his release from the team.
Despite his impressive metrics in the previous season – 53 receptions, 1,055 yards, and a team-leading nine touchdowns, Reggie Brown had to part ways with the Chiefs. His average of 19.89 yards per catch ranked ninth nationally and second in the Sun Belt Conference.
Rookie Minicamp Intensifies Competition
The First-Team All-SBC wide receiver faced tough competition during the minicamp. The total number of players invited to trial included 38 undrafted rookies and four NFL veterans. Rookie minicamp also accommodated members of the Chiefs 2024 draft picks and 17 signed undrafted free agents.
Following his release from the Chiefs, Brown plans on looking to land a minicamp tryout with another franchise.
Impressive Debut for Hayek
Meanwhile, Hayek quickly made his mark during rookie minicamp. Matt McMullen, a Chiefs reporter, noted that Hayek had managed several targets during practice and generally made good use of all of them.
Adding another feather to his cap, Matt Derrick from Chiefs Digest named the 6-foot-1, 199-pounder as part of his “Five to Watch” list following Day 2 of the minicamp.
Rice Suspension Clouds Receiving Unit
Meanwhile, concerns surround the Chiefs’ receiving room as wide receiver Rashee Rice is expected to be suspended due to his involvement in a multi-vehicle car crash. The situation has escalated as Rice is reportedly under investigation for allegedly hitting a photographer.
This potential setback has urged the Chiefs to be prepared and instigate deeper competition within their receivers’ ranks. Although Chiefs general manager Brett Veach suggested not seeking outside talent until after training camp, the door is open for contention for the Chiefs’ No. 6 or No. 7 wide receiver slot.
In the absence of Rice, Patrick Mahomes’ main receivers include Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, Xavier Worthy, Justin Watson, Kadarius Toney, and Skyy Moore. Moreover, rookies like Justyn Ross, Nikko Remigio, Cornell Powell, and Montrell Washington remain in the fray for a spot on the 53-man roster.
As Chiefs head coach Andy Reid assesses the team’s new talent, more cuts are expected in the days to come.
In a constantly evolving NFL lineup scenario, these roster shuffles emphasize the jostle for superiority and the relentless ambition of upcoming talent.