3 Chiefs Who Need More Playing Time in Week 7 vs. Chargers
By Joe Summers
2. Justyn Ross, WR
Chiefs receivers not named Rashee Rice combined for five catches and 31 yards against Denver. That simply won't cut it.
Kadarius Toney has shown flashes but seems relegated to a gadget role, so Ross is the receiver who makes the most sense to earn more snaps in the wake of Justin Watson's injury. Valdes-Scantling and Moore have done nothing this season and I'm ready to see what Ross can do.
It’s early but I’m buying Justyn Ross stock. 6 snaps 4 targets including a red zone target.
— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) October 11, 2023
2 catches 28 yards. 2 drops but they weren’t a problem in college. I think we can say the drops were a result of getting used to the speed on the game. pic.twitter.com/uFV3ScJu0A
He consistently flashes and demands attention when he's on the field. After getting four targets on just six snaps against the Vikings, Ross didn't receive a target on Thursday but was up to 14% of the snaps.
That's obviously not very much, but it's a step in the right direction. The Chargers struggled against the big-bodied Treylon Burks of Tennessee, allowing three catches for 76 yards, so Ross could find openings especially when the defense is focused on Kelce.
Patrick Mahomes has sang Ross' praises and the former Clemson star possesses a skillset the other Chiefs receivers simply don't have. With Watson on the shelf and other receivers playing poorly, it's time for Andy Reid to let Ross loose.
On top of these offensive players that need more playing time in Week 7, there's one defensive contributor we'll need on the field more as well.