We now know why the Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 roster opened with so many options at the receiver position. Rashee Rice has been suspended for six games, with this starting next week on the road against the Los Angeles Chargers. It seems Kansas City was expecting this resolution and prepared by carrying far more receivers than is typical.
Still, there is little margin for error over the next six games as Tyquan Thornton attempts to cement his spot on the roster.
Thornton had an incredible camp and preseason and must continue to show progress through the early days of the season. Nikkoe Remigio brings proven value as a special teams piece. This would seemingly put Jason Brownlee and Thornton on the bubble. The latter seems to be under more pressure, with one franchise already giving up despite spending a valuable draft pick.
The pass catcher's speed has to be more than a tantalizing idea; it must translate into a handful of plays that make it clear keeping the receiver is the right decision even once Rice returns. Making the initial roster is an accomplishment, but not one that indicates any level of future stability, with the hot start needing to continue.
Chiefs WR Tyquan Thornton Remains on Questionable Footing
Thornton is going to have every chance to play a surprisingly productive role in the next weeks of the season. Marquise "Hollywood" Brown seems to forever be dealing with some type of injury, and Rice is very much in question. In seasons past, this would set up a huge start to the year for Travis Kelce. While this is still on the board, it seems more likely the Chiefs want to save what's left in the tank for when the games truly matter.
It opens the door not only for Thornton, but for the rest of Kansas City's depth receivers to step into an unexpected role and cement their spot. This needs to happen for the former New England Patriots draft pick to feel safe in his current role. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him cut when Rice can return in the middle of October.
Taking this a step further, if Thornton struggles, there are remaining veteran options on the free agent market the Chiefs could turn to. Mecole Hardman would be at the top of this list as a proven champion and already having chemistry in the current offense. No question, Thornton's role is far from safe.