The Chiefs are relying on a youth movement within their receiving squad in 2023.
Four of Kansas City’s seven rostered receivers have two or fewer NFL seasons under their belts. And with Kadarius Toney (who’s entering year three) injured heading into Week 1, the Chiefs are really leaning on second-year players Skyy Moore and Justyn Ross, and rookie Rashee Rice. And Ross is essentially a rookie after missing all of 2022 with an injury.
Buy Chiefs TicketsThe Chiefs are really banking on Moore to take a step forward in 2023, but Rice and Ross have the potential to break out. However, it might be a slow transition for them.
To start the season, the plan is to ease Rice and Ross into the offense, utilizing their talents in key situations and giving them chances to succeed.
“I think we’ll see a big jump with Skyy, and I think what you’ll see from both Justyn Ross and Rashee as the games goes on, you’ll see them probably have certain packages,” Chiefs general manager Brett Veach said during Wednesday’s press conference. “That will lead into more utilization within the offense and graduating from a package player to an every-down receiver.
“The hopes with all these young guys is to gradually make that transition. I think we have a bunch of guys that are candidates to do that on this roster and I think, in the meantime, coach (Andy Reid) does a great job in finding what they do and putting them in position to gain their confidence and to help us on game day. Like I said, if they are able to do that and naturally progress over the volume, they can handle for the course of a season.”
Long story short? Don’t expect to see Rice and Ross earn a lion’s share of snaps early on, but don’t be surprised to see them earn more reps as they find their roles within the offense. Expect Rice to receive plenty of short passes in the beginning, while Ross will be utilized for his size — think the goal-line fade that earned Ross a touchdown in Week 3 of the preseason.
