The Kansas City Chiefs are adding wide receiver Tyquan Thornton to their practice squad, according to a report by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler later revealed that Thornton attracted interest from 12 teams, including the New Orleans Saints, before ultimately choosing Kansas City.
Thornton, 24, was a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Baylor, selected by the New England Patriots after a trade with the Chiefs. In exchange for the No. 50 pick used to draft Thornton, Kansas City received two picks, including No. 54, which they used to select fellow wide receiver Skyy Moore.
During his three seasons with the Patriots (2022-24), Thornton appeared in 28 games, starting 13 of them. He recorded 39 receptions for 385 yards and two touchdowns. However, recurring shoulder injuries in 2022 and 2023 limited his ability to make a consistent impact.
Thornton found himself the odd man out in a Patriots receiver room reshaped by the arrival of rookies Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, both selected in the first four rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft. As a result, New England waived Thornton over the weekend, paving the way for his move to Kansas City.
The Chiefs are likely intrigued by Thornton’s blazing speed. At the 2022 NFL Combine, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound wideout recorded an impressive 4.28-second 40-yard dash, making him one of the fastest players in his draft class. Kansas City’s interest in adding speed to their roster aligns with their offensive philosophy, particularly as they seek depth in their receiving corps.
While Thornton’s production in New England was limited, a fresh start with the Chiefs could help unlock his potential. His speed could prove valuable in Kansas City’s dynamic offense, especially under head coach Andy Reid’s innovative system. As part of the practice squad, Thornton will have the opportunity to develop his skills further and compete for a spot on the active roster.
For the Chiefs, this signing represents a low-risk, high-upside move that could bolster their wide receiver depth, while offering Thornton a chance to rejuvenate his young NFL career.
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