NFL Rumors: Chiefs Showing Interest In Jason Avant

Aug 24, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant (81) catches a pass prior to the start of the game at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

It seemed inevitable this tweet would be coming, so let’s get to it.

That’s the Kansas City Star’s Terez A. Paylor with the tweet. It should be noted that if Paylor is tweeting it then it is probably a very true rumor.

Avant isn’t a sexy free agent signing but it would be a savvy and cheap one. Many will point to Avant’s lack of production in Philadelphia last season but he was always very productive in Philadelphia under Reid’s scheme. In fact Pro Football Focus had Avant rated as the 20th best receiver in the NFL in 2012. That season he averaged more yards per catch than Percy Harvin, Wes Welker, and Randall Cobb, and caught an astounding 74.6% of his targeted passes. Plus he is a great locker room presence.

The key to Avant is stability and security. He knows the offense, knows how to get open, and knows how to be a security blanket for Alex Smith. Plus, Avant is a very solid blocker in the running and screen game, which will be crucial for Jamaal Charles. There is too much here that makes sense for the Chiefs.

No he is not a big play receiver but the Chiefs cannot afford to buy a big play receiver in free agency. And any “big play” receiver the Chiefs take in the draft is probably not going to be able to contribute at a high level immediately. It generally takes time for wide receivers to develop. The more depth and quality the Chiefs can add to their receiver group, the better. Especially if Dexter McCluster is going to be gone.

Assuming the money is right, Avant makes a lot of sense for the Chiefs.