Chiefs training camp: Watching the wide receivers

Sep 27, 2014; Athens, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Chris Conley (31) runs after a catch against the Tennessee Volunteers defense during the first half at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Conley, the organization’s third-round draft pick, figures to get plenty of opportunities for playing time this season. Despite mixed results and production at Georgia, Conley posses the raw tools to make an impact. The question will be what kind of impact and when after straining his knee in camp.

At the NFL combine, he became a bit of a sensation, posting a 4.3 40-yard dash, after measuring in at 6-foot-2. The question with Conley, and this is something games will play out, why did he not do more at Georgia. He never caught more then 40 passes in a season, and that was with former Georgia and current Chiefs backup quarterback Aaron Murray. The hope is that Conley will turn into a better pro then college player. An interesting side point, and this is not a secret, is Conley’s diverse interest, including a very well done Star Wars spoof he did while at Georgia.

Kenny Cook, an undrafted-free agent out of small-school Gardner Webb, is another name to keep an eye on through training camp. A unique player, Cook stands 6-foot-4 and nearly 220 pounds. Not overly explosive, he does accelerate well and shows an understanding of using his body well to get position. Many of the questions with Brown continue here, as one has to wonder where Cook fits this season.

More then likely he is a likely practice squad kid who could step in and replace the void when Avant’s contract ends after the 2015 season. It will be interesting to see if the Chiefs use Cook in some tight end formations due to his size, especially since Demetrius Harris’s status is unknown going into the season.

Frankie Hammond is another name to keep an eye on but for a different reason then the players listed above. Hammond never appeared comfortable catching the football last season, many times making easy catches look difficult and tough catches impossible. Hammond has experience now and can contribute on special teams, but one has to wonder if he fits in with the teams plans after the signing of Maclin and the drafting of Conley.

Hammond will be in a dog fight with a slew of other players, including the aforementioned Brown and Cook for the last spots as wide receivers on the team. It will be interesting to see what happens.

Next: Can Junior Hemingway stick on the roster?