Dec 21, 2014; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Albert Wilson (12) runs after a catch as Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback William Gay (22) defends during the second quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Albert Wilson
The final Chief who will have a career year in 2015 is Albert Wilson, the 5-foot-9 second year wide receiver out of Georgia State. I love Wilson. Along with his obvious speed and quickness, he has very reliable hands, only 2 dropped passes last year, and his route running is sharp, something that is often missed. He creates separation with ease, unlike many of the Chiefs’ wide receivers of 2014 (I’m looking at you Dwayne Bowe), and once he’s created separation, he doesn’t drop the ball like the rest of the Chiefs’ receivers.
Wilson was particularly impressive against Pittsburgh and excels in the screen game, something that Andy Reid and Alex Smith will utilize again and again. He can make defenders miss with his great balance, and his Yards per Reception was 16.3 yards. Playing with a conservative quarterback of Smith’s ilk, this shows his ability to make plays off relatively safe play calling.
In 2015, Wilson will be the starting wide receiver opposite of Jeremy Maclin. With Maclin attracting the attention of the best opposing corner, and playing alongside Jamaal Charles and Travis Kelce, Wilson will see a lot of man coverage, something he has all the tools to exploit.
In the last four games, Wilson recorded 209 yards. Extrapolating this over a full season Wilson should be looking toward 800 yards. For the third or fourth receiver on the team, these would be outstanding numbers. If he can stay fit, Wilson will get close to these numbers, perhaps around the 700 yard mark for the season. This would be a fantastic season for the sophomore, and something that Chiefs’ fans will be able to celebrate come 2016.
So, there you have it, my five players who are primed for a breakout season. I considered things such as playing time and the strength of the Chiefs roster, as well as the pure ability of the player, to come to these conclusions. Do you agree with any of these? Was there someone I missed off who you think should definitely be on the list? And am I mad for putting Ron Parker on this list?
Let me know in the comments, and as always… GO CHIEFS!!