Chiefs are betting Omari Evans' elite athleticism translates to Sundays

Following the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chiefs made a flurry of under-the-radar moves to acquire several undrafted rookies they believed had a chance to make an impact in the NFL. While all eyes were on other key UDFA additions, including Jeff Caldwell and Xavier Nwankpa, the Chiefs brought in a total of 20 undrafted free agents after the draft. One of their top pickups was former Penn State and Washington wide receiver Omari Evans.

From forgotten prospect to Chiefs opportunity

Evans caught the attention of many scouts during his time at Penn State, but after a disappointing campaign with the Huskies in 2026, many evaluators moved him off their draft boards. As a senior, Evans recorded just 17 receptions for 254 yards and one touchdown, potentially closing the door on his NFL dreams.

But a glimmer of hope came Evans' way after his incredible performance at Washington's Pro Day during the offseason. While Chiefs scouts were largely absent from the event, word spread about Evans lighting up the athletic testing drills, posting a 4.28-second 40-yard dash, an elite 41-inch vertical jump, and a 10-foot-7 broad jump.

Those testing numbers are elite for a wide receiver, and when Evans went undrafted, the Chiefs were one of the first teams to contact him about joining them for training camp. Kansas City clearly believes in the talent Evans possesses and what he could bring to the table in the right offensive scheme. It is simply a matter of unlocking that production.

Why Kansas City took a chance on Evans

When you look at the type of receivers Andy Reid has historically favored, especially over the last five years, Evans fits the mold perfectly. He is an explosive athlete with good burst off the line of scrimmage and the top-end speed to separate downfield out of his breaks. The Chiefs hope that, with his strong frame and elite athleticism, Evans can earn a role in camp as a depth receiver, return specialist, or practice squad player who could later be promoted if injuries arise.

Can Evans earn a roster spot?

Coming into training camp, the wide receiver room is generating plenty of buzz, and Evans has not received much attention from scouts or fans. With Rashee Rice returning from injury and suspension, Jeff Caldwell emerging as a top UDFA addition, and players such as Nikko Remigio and Andrew Armstrong also competing for roster spots, it has been difficult for Evans to stand out. Still, he is a name that should not be overlooked and could earn a role with the Chiefs in 2026 and beyond.

Wide receiver depth is far from a strength for the Chiefs, with very few players considered true locks to make the Week 1 roster. Tyquan Thornton, after signing an offseason extension, appears to be a near certainty. Beyond him, however, there are still questions. Rashee Rice is coming off a difficult offseason, Xavier Worthy has dealt with injuries, and every receiver other than Thornton remains on a rookie contract.

The reality for Evans is that he is most likely competing with Jeff Caldwell and Andrew Armstrong for the sixth receiver spot or a place on the practice squad. While Evans may not enter the season as a potential star, he can provide value as a depth receiver and potential special teams contributor.

The practice squad would be a good starting point for Evans, allowing him to develop with the team as a rookie while remaining available for promotion if injuries occur. He could make a legitimate push for a roster spot in 2027 and is someone the Chiefs should look to keep in the building however they can. His upside stems from an elite athletic profile that projects well to the NFL, and if the Chiefs can help him refine the rest of his game, he could become a contributor in Kansas City for years to come.

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