Veteran wide receiver Tyquan Thornton has become the biggest beneficiary of Xavier Worthy being out with a shoulder injury to start the 2025 season.
The former second-round pick, who was considered a depth wide receiver after the preseason, has developed into one of Patrick Mahomes’ go-to options for the deep ball, which is something that the Kansas City Chiefs’ offense desperately needs with Worthy sidelined.
To his credit, Thornton has made the most out of his opportunities, recording nine receptions (18 targets) for 171 yards and two touchdowns. The former New England Patriots wide receiver isn’t taking this moment for granted, as he tries to soak up as much knowledge as possible.
"I learn every day. . . I learn from my teammates, taking things from these veteran players. . . going on the practice field and challenging myself,” Thornton said via Charles Goldman of AtoZ Sports.
Tyquan Thornton Making Most of His Newfound Opportunities in KC
Thornton has clearly made a drastic improvement from his time with the Patriots to now with the Chiefs. The 25-year-old receiver is playing with confidence and looking like the guy he saw with blazing speed coming out of Baylor.
Having a guy like Mahomes also makes your job easy as a wide receiver. In fact, Thornton had high praise for the superstar QB, saying that he throws a “friendly ball”, per Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports.
“You can be covered, but the QB can throw you uncovered. He just makes it easier on you to make the catch, that's all,” Thornton said, via Goldman.
Thornton knows and understands his role and is playing it outstandingly for Kansas City. It also helps that he’s around guys like Hollywood Brown and Juju Smith-Schuster, who have been in the league for some time and have carved out roles for themselves in KC.
Even when Worthy returns to the field, along with Rice, the Chiefs would be foolish not to have Thornton on the field as well.
Can you imagine an opposing defense trying to defend a three-wide receiver set with Thornton and Worthy’s speed on the outside and Rice in the slot? Good luck trying to stop Thornton or Worthy from taking the top of the defense.
If you’re a Chiefs fan, you’re pleased with Thornton’s performance and hope he continues to play well, as it will only help Kansas City get back on track and stake its claim as the best in the AFC.