KC Chiefs who may have played final game for team in Super Bowl LIV

Sammy Watkins

Wide receiver Sammy Watkins signed a three-year $48M contract with the Chiefs in March of 2018. It was an expensive move by Brett Veach, but with one thing in mind – give first-year starter Patrick Mahomes as many weapons as possible.

It was a bold and risky move considering Watkins’ history with injuries. The former first-round draft pick appeared to be a bit of an NFL bust after injuries, playing for two different teams, and then hitting free agency.

During the 2018 season, Watkins only played ten games after struggling with injuries and while the talent was there, it was easy to question his durability, especially given the massive contract. It also seemed as though Watkins’ time got off to a slow start in Andy Reid’s offense, something that can hamper receivers their first year in that system.

At first glance, the offseason signing looked to be a not-so-great decision.

Then 2019 came and Watkins roared back on the scene with nearly 200 yards receiving and three touchdowns on opening day against Jacksonville. With a significant injury to Tyreek Hill that day, the Chiefs would need to then depend on Watkins even more.

Interestingly, he didn’t score another touchdown the rest of the regular season, while only hauling in 673 yards receiving. The only saving grace for his 2019 season was seeing him come through in the most crucial moments during the playoffs and Super Bowl victory (14 receptions for 288 yards and one touchdown).

Had Watkins not had those great contributions in the postseason, Veach’s move to sign him in 2018 would be a failure. Now, as the Chiefs look to the future, it’s likely that Watkins won’t be playing in a Chiefs’ jersey in 2020.

Between the Chiefs needing to create cap space and the possibility of him taking time away from football, something will have to give. Chiefs Kingdom shouldn’t be surprised if Watkins has played in his final game with Kansas City.