KC Chiefs: Offensive players to watch for in training camp
By Evan Mead
The Kansas City Chiefs shouldn’t be satisfied going into the season after the terrible loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Super Bowl. The Chiefs, who are supposed to be the most feared team in the NFL, came up with a disappointing loss in the Super Bowl that they are going to want to rebound from.
As the Chiefs continue to lead the NFL’s offenses with top-tier talent, it’s also true that the unit will be relying on a few players who might be flying under the surface. With the loss of wide receiver Sammy Watkins and holes in other places on the roster, some younger players have a real chance to shine on this side of the ball.
With that being said, there are a couple names who I feel you should watch out for in training camp on the offensive side of things.
Byron Pringle, WR
There is a lot of uncertainty at wideout given the departure of Sammy Watkins, but there are a lot of people who have high hopes for Byron Pringle. The former Kansas State receiver has had a very limited role thus far into his career, but could be primed for a big season this year. The Chiefs have a serious competition coming up in camp for the WR2 role, and Pringle should get a chance to show what he can do in front of the coaches.
In Pringle’s limited opportunities, he’s showed promise, but obviously the coaches weren’t impressed enough. However, although the movie isn’t something to base it upon, there is one statement I have always taken from the movie Draft Day: “Find out what’s wrong with him, and then figure out if it matters or not.”
Byron Pringle has shown that his route running and ability to create separation is questionable. However, in most of his recognizable opportunities, he has shown that it doesn’t matter. I remember vividly watching the Chiefs play in 2019 against the Indianapolis Colts and Pringle was a primary receiver for the Chiefs. In that game he produced for 6/8 on receptions, 103 yards and recorded a touchdown.
Pringle, when given the opportunity to shine, has proven he can step up and show up. I expect him to compete for that open wide receiver two spot this season.