Chiefs Road to SB51: advancing air attack
By Ryan Tracy
Tale of two vets
Rod Streater was signed to add another experienced pass-catcher to this group. Many think Streater is slotted into the starting ‘X’ role, but that may be premature. The complexity of the Reid offense is a challenge over the offenses Streater has played in over his career.
Streamer has one advantage that will help him. He is versatile. He has a lot of experience running out of the “big” slot role, something Reid has shown a liking for over the years. If not the ‘X’, Streater could take over and expand the role Jason Avant played in 2015 (i.e.. crucial playoff contributor).
Related Story: SB51 Road: Rush the Passer?
It’s a conundrum, this whole De’Anthony Thomas situation. Is he truly healthy? Has he fallen out of favor with the coaching staff? Is he an actual wide receiver? If not, is he the #4 running back?
All these questions force the consideration that the offense is growing away from DAT. Its far-fetched to think that he is any higher than the #5 WR. With his utilization as a tweener, could he be an exception to a 5-man receiver corp? Expect the team to try to squeeze six onto the 53-man and DAT to be among them.
The 6th man
With this group, and depending on how they designate DAT, its likely the team keeps six wide receivers. Two drafts picks and one Chiefs veteran will be grinding to make this years squad.
John Dorsey spent valuable draft picks on and took considerable heat for bringing Demarcus Robinson and Tyreek Hill to Kansas City. Because of those costs, both of these players are likely pushing Frankie Hammond from the roster. Hill will compete for return duties, but is not likely an option in the offense.
Robinson has a legitimate shot to play in the offense and make the roster as the last wide receiver. He will lean heavily on his athleticism this pre-season. As the season moves on #4-#6 receivers could be fluid and give the offense a diverse group to put on the field and find mismatches.
How do you feel about the evolving receiver corps, Addicts?