Chiefs 3rd-year WR making late push for roster: ‘He’s really picked up his game’
Kansas City Chiefs receiver Justyn Ross has picked a good time to have his best stretch of training camp.
The Chiefs’ third-year receiver — originally an undrafted free agent out of Clemson — received his highest number of snaps with the first- and second-string offense during Wednesday’s practice at Missouri Western.
That follows a strong last week for Ross, as the 6-foot-4 receiver has thrived in one-on-one situations.
“He’s really picked up his game,” Chiefs receivers coach Connor Embree said Wednesday. “What I asked him to do is pretty much dominate any jump ball and in the red zone, and I think he’s been doing that.
“He’s a big-bodied receiver, and he needs to play that way.”
Ross had a standout catch in Wednesday’s workout, keeping his eyes on a pass deflected by cornerback Kelvin Joseph before snagging it on the sideline while tapping two feet inbounds.
Saturday’s preseason opener also showcased what Ross does best: He went over Jacksonville defender De’Antre Prince for a 23-yard sideline reception in the third quarter. Overall, Pro Football Focus also graded Ross as the Chiefs’ third-best offensive player.
Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy commented Tuesday that Ross had been “making plays.” He described Saturday’s reception as a “great catch.”
“Again, (it’s) just continuing to grow, not make the same mistake twice for Justyn,” Nagy said. “I love his attitude. He’s been very involved and really enjoying his process.
Will all that be enough, though, to earn a spot at the end of the Chiefs’ roster?
Hollywood Brown’s recent shoulder injury could help Ross’ cause, potentially forcing the Chiefs to keep an additional receiver on their initial 53.
Ross also could be at a disadvantage in other ways. Previous injuries have limited his burst and separation skills. And he’s also not an ideal fit on special teams — a role where back-end-of-the-roster receivers typically need to contribute.
There’s also the question of whether his superpower fits with something the Chiefs need. Patrick Mahomes has historically been a quarterback who prefers throwing to open guys rather than ones who need to make a play for a contested ball. KC also appears to have plans for 6-foot-6 rookie tight end Jared Wiley, who could present similar strengths to those Ross might provide.
When asked what more Ross needs to do to earn a spot with the Chiefs besides winning sideline routes, Embree spoke more about the big picture.
“Just be consistent,” Embree said, “and show up every day and work hard.”
Ross, who sat out his rookie season following foot surgery, played in 10 games for the Chiefs last season with six catches for 53 yards.
