The Kansas City Chiefs have found a welcome problem when it comes to filling out the bottom of the depth chart at the receiver position. Every time it appears there is a favorite, a big play or a new camp report emerges to reset fan expectations. It is a heated battle for what could be a surprisingly important spot with the pending suspension of Rashee Rice. With this in mind, Saturday's preseason opener threw yet another name into contention for the final roster spot.
Jason Brownlee signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent ahead of the 2023 season. Not only did Brownlee impress in camp, but the rookie also made the final roster and would catch his first touchdown later that season. Despite all the frustration at quarterback, Brownlee still managed to make a handful of plays and earn another chance the following season.
Things didn't go as well with the pass catcher landing on the practice squad and eventually being waived. Kansas City took advantage of this, signing the receiver to the practice squad while making a playoff run. Brownlee was later signed to a future/reserve contract and is now fighting for the final spot at the receiver position.
All I ever needed was an opportunity 💫I’m back ‼️ https://t.co/KVNt0wC8mv
— Jason Brownlee (@Slideweezy) August 10, 2025
Chiefs Receiver Jason Brownlee Continues Uphill Battle Fighting for Surprise Roster Spot
While other receivers might be outshining Brownlee in camp, the pass catcher had an undeniably exciting moment in the preseason opener. With the Chiefs knocking on the door, Brownlee perfectly played his defender, creating enough space to dive back and catch a perfect ball from Patrick Mahomes. The touchdown demanded attention and gave fans a reason to wonder if the receiver could carve out a surprise role.
Brownlee himself noted the moment, tweeting the touchdown, pointing out, "all I ever needed was an opportunity." It was an understandable sentiment for a receiver who had been previously stuck in the Jets drama or on the Chiefs' practice squad. For the first time in two seasons, Brownlee is going to be given every chance to make the bottom of the roster.
With that said, it remains an incredibly difficult task with far more proven pass catchers still sitting ahead of Brownlee. The receiver is going to need far more impressive moments to continue to make a dent in his current positioning. Not only making preseason plays, but being a consistent threat in camp and establishing a level of performance the Chiefs simply can't ignore.