Kansas City Chiefs: Five Positions To Watch In Training Camp

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver A.J. Jenkins (15) Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

We could debate all day on whether or not Dwayne Bowe is a number one receiver or not. In 2008, 2010, and 2011, the answer is yes. The problem is his other years, he is average at best. The Chiefs need to be able to rely on Bowe to be a dominant receiver.

On this team, Bowe is the undisputed number one receiver, for better or worse. After the Bowe, there is nothing but question marks and hope.

Until someone steps forward, the number two receiver is still Donnie Avery, but he is not a steady producer at all. He is not horrible, but the Chiefs need someone to surpass him.

If either Dressler or Thomas can develop into an open field threat, it will also take pressure off Bowe and company on the outside and down field.

There are some candidates. A.J. Jenkins and Junior Hemingway may be the top candidates to unseat Avery, with Kyle Williams and rookie Frank Hammond also in the mix.

The Chiefs need to replace Dexter McCluster as the slot receiver. Two candidates are very intriguing here. CFL star Weston Dressler and rookie running back De’Anthony Thomas both are very exciting options.

Thomas was drafted as a running back but he will be wearing number one, which is an indication he will be playing receiver.

If one of these two huge unknowns can step forward and be a good play maker to take the pressure off Jamaal Charles, it would be a gigantic boon to the offense.

If either Dressler or Thomas can develop into an open field threat, it will also take pressure off Bowe and company on the outside and down field.

There are just so many things that need to go right for this unit to be better than last year. Hopefully, several guys take the next step forward in training camp, and can alleviate some of our fears.