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KC Chiefs: Three exciting undrafted free agents

By Jacob Milham

ST JOSEPH, MISSOURI - JULY 30: A general view of Kansas City Chiefs helmets on the field, during training camp at Missouri Western State University on July 30, 2021 in St Joseph, Missouri. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images)
ST JOSEPH, MISSOURI - JULY 30: A general view of Kansas City Chiefs helmets on the field, during training camp at Missouri Western State University on July 30, 2021 in St Joseph, Missouri. (Photo by Peter G. Aiken/Getty Images) /
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Clemson wide receiver Justyn Ross (8) before the game at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York, Friday, October 15, 2021.Ncaa Football Clemson At Syracuse
Clemson wide receiver Justyn Ross (8) before the game at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse, New York, Friday, October 15, 2021.Ncaa Football Clemson At Syracuse /

WR Justyn Ross

Clemson wide receiver Justyn Ross was the biggest name in the UDFA pool, and he is taking his talents to Kansas City.

Ross was once a top prospect, leading the 2018 and 2019 Clemson wide receiver corps. That team appeared in national championships and featured several NFL prospects. Then-18-year-old Ross was WR1 over players such as Hunter Renfrow and Tee Higgins, so the talent is apparent. HE recorded 1,865 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns in his first two years. Ross’ ceiling seemed unlimited, as he could become one of the best Clemson wide receivers ever.

Unfortunately, his body betrayed him. Ross missed the 2020 season after doctors found a bulging disc, ultimately requiring spinal surgery. While Ross returned to full action in 2021, he looked like a shell of his former self. While that could be attributed to poor quarterback play or Ross being rusty, his production was severely lacking. His draft case only worsened with a new foot injury, taking him off draft boards altogether.

Once the draft ended, fans lobbied for their respective teams to sign Ross. The excitement was logical, as rarely does such a talent appear in the UDFA pool. However, Veach and Kansas City already had contacts with Ross’ agent, Tory Dandy.

“When the draft ended, he was just going through some options — and we stayed in touch,” Veach said. “Then yesterday, we connected again. He had a chance to review all the offers and the landscape of where everything was. He decided to come here.”

Ross’ decisions could benefit both him and the Chiefs. The team has not shied away from a prospect’s injury history, with guard Trey Smith being the best example. The Chiefs’ investment in Smith paid dividends, and Ross may be the next great investment. The upcoming rookie minicamp will show how explosive and talented Ross is, and fans will be excited. While head coach Andy Reid’s scheme is not kind to rookie wide receivers, Ross could excel if he stays with the team. He has an outside chance at making the 53-man roster right now. Ross will certainly need a strong offseason to make his case.

The talent and pedigree are there. It is up to Ross to capitalize on his chance in Kansas City.

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