Chiefs Facing Wide Receiver Dilemma Ahead of 2026 NFL Season
As the NFL Draft approaches, the Kansas City Chiefs are navigating some intriguing challenges, especially at the wide receiver position. While many expected the team to focus on bolstering their defense or adding depth at running back with their ninth overall pick, it seems the receiving corps might need more immediate attention.
Currently, the Chiefs have six wide receivers under contract for 2026. However, only three of them-Xavier Worthy, Rashee Rice, and Jalen Royals-managed to catch a pass last season. This leaves a significant question mark hanging over the position.
Adding to the complexity, Marquise "Hollywood" Brown, Tyquan Thornton, and JuJu Smith-Schuster are set to become unrestricted free agents, while Nikko Remigio is an exclusive-rights free agent. This potential exodus could leave the Chiefs thin at wide receiver.
Compounding the situation is a recent civil suit filed against Rashee Rice, involving allegations from the mother of his two children. Despite this, head coach Andy Reid has indicated that the team's strategy for the upcoming season remains unchanged.
“I would tell you, no, not right now on this,” Reid commented, emphasizing that the current legal issues surrounding Rice haven’t altered their plans.
Rice was a standout performer in 2025, leading the Chiefs' receivers with 53 receptions, despite being sidelined for the first six games due to a suspension related to a 2023 car crash. Following him was Brown with 49 catches, and Worthy with 42.
The big question now is whether the Chiefs will re-sign any of their impending free agents or look to the draft to strengthen their receiving options. General manager Brett Veach is set to explore all possibilities at the upcoming NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
“Brett’s already got his guys digging in on things,” Reid noted. “There’s a million different options of things you have to look at. A lot of moving parts going on.”
As the Chiefs weigh their options, fans will be watching closely to see how this pivotal offseason unfolds. With a mix of talent on the roster and potential new additions, the Chiefs are poised to make strategic moves that could shape their offensive future.