Tyreek Hill is changing expectations for Chiefs receivers

Some will argue that Hill’s the exception to the rule because of an elite skill set. He has world-class speed and a level of athleticism you just don’t find on the typical NFL depth chart. To some extent, I’d agree. He has God-given talent that makes him a tough cover for every cornerback in this league. Hill can flat run by you and plays much bigger than his 5’10, 185-pound frame with the ball in the air. Might I submit to you that there’s more to Hill than his measurables?

I’m no NFL scout, but I see a level of urgency with Hill that rivals every offensive skill player on this football team not named Spencer Ware. Hill plays with remarkable effort. It’s almost as though he realizes football is something that could’ve (and perhaps should’ve) been taken away from him for his transgressions. When you couple “want to” and that level of athleticism, you often come away with a special player at this level.

Thus far, all indications point to Hill becoming that kind of player in Kansas City. He’s not quite there yet and has to be more consistent, but all of the tools are there for him to eventually evolve into a No. 1 receiver. He’s already earned the trust of quarterback Alex Smith, and that’s no small feat.

Smith is as risk-averse as they come and offensive looks are largely contingent upon his confidence in your ability to help him avoid mistakes. Tre Boston’s first quarter interception of Smith was a result of him trying to push the ball down the field to Hill on a deep route.