John Ross gives KC Chiefs a speedy offseason project

Will the Kansas City Chiefs be able to unlock something more while working with the top speed of wide receiver John Ross?

At one point, John Ross’s top speed was such an exciting point for NFL scouts and executives that he was taken in the top nine of the NFL Draft. That draft just happened to be the 2017 NFL Draft, and Ross’s draft position was just one slot in front of Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Think the Cincinnati Bengals would like another attempt at that one?

Ross already shares that anecdotal draft link with Mahomes, but on Monday, general manager Brett Veach decided to create another by signing Ross to a futures deal with the Chiefs.

Several seasons have passed now since Ross set a record at the NFL Combine by running the 40-yard dash in a jaw-dropping 4.22 seconds. Ross’s high-end speed was supposed to help the Bengals stretch the field and take the offense to a higher level. While the Bengals eventually got what they wanted, it’s because they had to invest further draft choices in later drafts in the likes of Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase to make it happen.

As for Ross, he flamed out in Cincinnati fairly quickly for such a highly-regarded prospect. Marvin Lewis basically benched him for much of his rookie year as he also dealt with myriad injuries. He finally got some solid playing time in his second and third seasons but he never turned into the sort of weapon envisioned by the front office. He ultimately requested a trade during his final season in Cincy, but stuck around to finish his rookie deal in another injury-laden year.

As for last year, Ross found a one-year home with the New York Giants after signing for $2.5 million in free agency. It’s amazing, then, that he has found a home with the Chiefs on a futures deal, showing just how far his stock has fallen. For the Giants this season, Ross had 11 catches for 224 yards and 1 touchdown.