The primary returner role seems to belong to Nikko Remigio for now.
One year after taking over the role on a full-time basis, Remigio returned to the Kansas City Chiefs in 2026 facing questions about whether or not the team would provide a worthy challenger. But no specialist has emerged after major roster reconstruction over the spring or summer, and while others might chime in from time to time, it seems Remigio is safe for now.
Anything can change with the full preseason slate of games ahead for the Chiefs, but Remigio's positioning at present is a very positive development for a player who was likely more worried before arriving at camp.
Last year, the longest kickoff return for the Chiefs was a 47-yard effort from Remigio, followed by a 42-yard return from Tyquan Thornton. Remigio's longest punt return was 31 yards, while Brashard Smith had a 44-yard return. The lack of a touchdown or any more game-changing plays was part of the overall lack of dynamism on a roster that lacked explosive plays.
Dave Toub says he likes what he sees from Remigio after another year of experience.
Fortunately, special teams coach Dave Toub delivered some good news to reporters on Wednesday, when asked how Remigio had improved.
"What [Remigio] is doing now is [that] his vision's really improved, I think," said Toub. "You'll see it in practice. He'll see a crack in the middle, and instead of trying to run all the way around it, he'll plant a foot upfield and get 15 or 20 extra yards. Those are the ones that sometimes, they pop ya and they get out on ya in a hurry. He's catching the ball great. I'm really pleased with where he's at right now."
Remigio isn't out of the woods yet when it comes to roster security. Smith is still around, as is Thornton. Toub also mentioned rookie wide receiver Jacob De Jesus, signed as a rookie free agent, as a player he likes with good hands. But so far, Remigio was first on the unofficial depth chart released on Monday, and he's Toub's go-to for now.
At the very least, the Chiefs seem primed to give Remigio first crack at holding onto the primary return role going into 2026 with the hopes that his experience will yield more impactful results.
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