Chiefs training camp preview: Wide Receiver
By Andrew Jones
For Part 4 of our Kansas City Chiefs training camp preview we will look at the wide receivers.
This is consistently the most scrutinized group on the team. Aside from Jeremy Maclin, there are continuous criticisms flung at this group for their lack of a real option for Alex Smith to throw downfield. The Chiefs have somewhat addressed the issue by drafting speedy and athletic wide receivers Chris Conley in 2014 and Demarcus Robinson in 2016. The Chiefs also signed Tampa Bay bust Mike Williams and undrafted free agent Mitch Mathews to get some real size in the position.
These additions to the outside may help the Chiefs look downfield more often but unless Smith and Reid have a philosophy change they will most likely over the middle and in the screen game. Maclin proved a valuable weapon in the screen game this past year, scoring two touchdowns in Oakland alone. Both Wilson and Conley should contribute with quick slants and outs but both need to work on their routes during camp to be reliable deep threats.
The big plus from this off season is that Maclin was able to spend plenty of time with the rest of the group, working with them through route running and the offense. This extra time on their own will help the younger receivers be more coachable and ready to learn come camp time.
Overall Grade: C+
Next: Onto the starters