With OTAs kicking off this week for the Kansas City Chiefs, most fans are interested in hearing about the vets like Patrick Mahomes or rookies like Jaylen Royals. However, OTAs are a great opportunity for other players fighting for a roster spot to start making a case for themselves.
One of those players in that category is veteran wide receiver Tyquan Thornton. According to Chiefs senior reporter Matt Mullen, Thornton made a couple of deep catches in 7-on-7 drills on Thursday.
A few notes from today’s OTA practice:
🏈 Patrick Mahomes had a great day with several tight-window throws
🏈 Tyquan Thornton made a pair of deep grabs during 7-on-7
🏈 Jalen Royals made the play of the day with a leaping, strong grab in the back of the end zone during 7-on-7.…
— Matt McMullen (@KCChiefs_Matt) May 29, 2025
If you are a Chiefs fan, you love hearing about Thorton already standing out at OTAs. He has an uphill climb to make the 53-man roster, given the depth and talent at the receiver spot in Kansas City.
Thornton has the speed to be utilized as a weapon inside the Chiefs’ offense, but he just needs to put it all together, which he’s struggled to do to start his career. Kansas City signed Thornton to its practice squad in November of last season after getting cut by the New England Patriots.
The 24-year-old spent three years in New England, where he battled injuries that kept him off the field. In his rookie season with the Patriots (13 games), Thornton recorded 22 receptions (45 targets) for 247 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a drop issue, totaling five in his first year.
However, over the last two years in New England, Thornton only played in 15 total games. He had 17 receptions (31 targets) for 138 yards. That said, the former second-round pick has received a fresh start with the Chiefs.
If Thornton can flash that 4.28 40-yard dash speed, which he showcased a few years ago at the NFL Scouting Combine, the Chiefs might have another interesting deep threat at their disposal. It could also make for an interesting battle for the last few spots in the WR room.
