Kansas City Chiefs: Top ten players that could break out in 2017

5. Chris Conley, WR

I already mentioned the void left by Jeremy Maclin’s release when we looked at Demarcus Robinson. While Robinson could stand to see more playing time because of Maclin’s release it could be Chris Conley that is able to become the bigger impact player. Conley is entering his third NFL season. After totaling just 17 receptions his rookie season he saw that number jump to 44 in 2016. If he can take advantage of the opening left by Maclin’s release and earn Alex Smith’s trust its not a stretch to think that he could bump that number up to 70 receptions this season.

Conley has the physical tools to be a star in the NFL. He has size, speed, leaping ability, and has shown glimpses of making truly spectacular catches. What may be holding Conley back is Alex Smith’s hesitation to take risks with the football. Conley is a player that has shown he can go up and get jump balls but Smith typically will not throw them. However, with Patrick Mahomes waiting in the wings we could see a more aggressive Smith this season if he decides he doesn’t have anything to lose. No player may benefit more from a more aggressive Smith than Conley.

If Smith continues to play it safe in 2017 then a break out for Conley becomes less likely. If that’s the case he may have to wait until Mahomes takes over before we see Conley really break out.