There is no denying that the Kansas City Chiefs have continued to find new heights of frustration with receiver Rashee Rice. As talented as the receiver remains, there's simply no excusing the off-the-field choices that limit his upside and leave the Chiefs with zero ability to rely on Rice. As unfortunate as this reality is, it has created a clear opportunity for a second-year player who was a bit of a disappointment a season ago.
Jalen Royals benefited from Rice missing OTAs, stepping into a starting role and flashing capability that quickly has fans thinking about a potential year two leap. This is despite Royals finishing with only a pair of catches and four receiving yards in his rookie year. It should be noted that one of the major reasons for the lack of production was due to the presence of Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster, greatly limiting the snaps of the rookie and burying him behind a depth chart of proven veterans.
That uphill battle no longer exists, with both veterans departing the franchise in free agency and KC failing to add any proven depth. Royals has a great chance to begin the season as the team's fourth offensive option and could find himself in a surprise starting role if Rice continues to miss time for one reason or another.
Chiefs receiver Jalen Royals clearly benefitting from Rashee Rice absence
Already, the Chiefs are counting on two hypotheticals in Xavier Worthy and Tyquan Thornton, with neither player having a resume that offers reason to believe they can be primary targets. Kansas City has left the door wide open at the position for Royals to carve out a meaningful role and prove himself worthy of playing time, even if and when Rice returns.
What Rice missing OTAs has done is simply allowed Royals a valuable chance to take reps with the starters and earn the confidence and trust with Patrick Mahomes. Building strong chemistry can't be underrated, as Andy Reid and Eric Bieniemy are both getting a front-row seat to the pass-catcher's progress and the potential fit that Royals presents in the KC offense.
As frustrating as the Rice situation has been, it's good to see at least one positive storyline present itself as Royals starts to build momentum in the early part of offseason workouts. Something that fans have to hope continues throughout the summer at a position that remains a clear concern.
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