Chiefs writer names 2,446-yard WR UDFA as player who can contribute this season

Daniel Fisher

Chiefs writer names 2,446-yard WR UDFA as player who can contribute this season  image

The Kansas City Chiefs attacked the receiving position during this year's NFL Draft by selecting Utah State's Jalen Royals.

Royals played at Utah State for three seasons, recording 1,914 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns in 32 games.

Even though Royals was a fourth-round pick, he should be able to contribute from Day 1. Another rookie receiver who can contribute early is undrafted free agent, Elijhah Badger, according to Samuel Teets from Chiefs Wire.

"Badger possesses the creativity and athletic traits that made Rashee Rice a success during his rookie season. Rice thrived creating on low depth receptions, similar to Badger’s experience at Arizona State. Competition to fill this role could be crowded with Rice returning from injury and rookie fourth round pick Jalen Royals thriving on schemed touches at Utah State," Teets wrote. "Even if Rice and Royals dominate the slot touches, Badger’s speed makes him a legitimate threat that defenses must respect downfield. He could serve as a sacrificial X receiver to clear out space underneath and save Hollywood Brown and Xavier Worthy from running those stamina-consuming downfield routes.

Badger spent last season at Florida after spending four years at Arizona State.

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In 47 games, Badger recorded 2,446 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. His college experience could give him an advantage during training camp this summer.

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Daniel Fisher

Daniel Fisher is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. Since graduating from Franklin University, he has covered the NFL and college football for several outlets, focusing on the Bills and Penn State. Daniel is a major sports fan and grew up rooting for the Browns, Cavaliers, Guardians, Blue Jackets and Ohio State.