The Kansas City Chiefs made a surprise move on Tuesday, with AtoZ Sports' Charles Goldman reporting that receiver Hal Presley had been released from the practice squad and linebacker Cole Christiansen had been re-signed to the unit.
While this is in many ways a minor move, fans can only hope it speaks to the two injured pieces who will soon return. It has been clear that Patrick Mahomes badly needs more help from the receiver group, with Jalen Royals, Xavier Worthy, and Rashee Rice all out.
While Rice won't be back from his suspension until October, parting ways with Presley suggests the Chiefs no longer view having extra receiver depth as a need. There has already been a heavy level of speculation that Worthy is going to be able to return to play the Giants on Sunday Night Football. While re-injury concerns remain, having the speed and reliability back in the lineup would be an incredible boost. Royals is a bit of an unknown, but would be a much-needed addition as well.
Chiefs' Recent Move Suggests Jalen Royals and Xavier Worthy Are Nearing Return
Royals had an incredible camp and early preseason, garnering comparisons to Rice. It was as if a slightly lesser version of the Kansas City star receiver had been drafted into the offense. With this in mind, there was a sense of belief Royals would help cover for Rice throughout the six-game suspension. Something that hasn't come to pass with the rookie missing the first two games of the season due to injury.
Kansas City jettisoning Presley leaves room to believe that not only will Worthy return, but Royals is nearing his debut as well. Week 3 would be the perfect time as the Chiefs take on the Giants. A struggling defense that is scheduled at the perfect time for a KC offense that needs a get-right game offensively.
The one concern with Worthy returning so quickly is whether or not the Chiefs are risking the receiver by putting him back on the field. Popping his shoulder out in the manner Worthy did in the collision with Travis Kelce leaves plenty of room to wonder how the speedy pass catcher is going to hold up the rest of the season.
Regardless, parting ways with Presley likely spells good news for Kansas City and its fans. The offense is desperate to find some level of consistency in the passing attack, and both Royals and Worthy can bring just that.