Despite clinching their third Super Bowl victory in five years, the Kansas City Chiefs encountered challenges with their wide receivers throughout the season, testing the patience of quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
As they look to bolster their roster, the upcoming draft presents an opportunity to find the playmaker they need.
In ESPN analyst Field Yates’ recent mock draft, he predicts that the Chiefs will select Texas Longhorns wide receiver Adonai Mitchell with the 32nd overall pick.
“The Chiefs’ wide receiver issues are no mystery, and Mitchell would help the cause. The 6-foot-4, 196-pounder is silky smooth when running routes and has the frame and length to make his mark down the field and in the red zone. The Chiefs hit a home run with Rashee Rice in the second round last April, and this would provide them with another playmaker to build the passing game around.”
Mitchell showcased his talent during his final season at Texas, tallying 11 receiving touchdowns, a feat that ranked him tied for 11th in the FBS. Additionally, his experience winning two national titles during his tenure at Georgia underscores his potential as a valuable asset for the Chiefs. Pairing him with standout receiver Rice could provide a potent offensive combination.
While Rice excelled in yards after the catch, leading the team with 653 yards according to Pro Football Reference, he falls short as the deep-ball specialist the Chiefs require.
Pro Football Focus data reveals that Rice’s average depth of target (ADOT) was a mere 5.2 yards, contrasting sharply with Mitchell’s impressive ADOT of 16 yards. Moreover, Mitchell’s remarkable consistency, evident in his minimal drops, could address the Chiefs’ issue with dropped passes, which plagued them with the highest number of drops (44) in the league last season.
While the allure of acquiring established talent like impending free agent and five-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans may be tempting for Kansas City, financial constraints suggest a more prudent approach. With an estimated $22.63 million in cap room, the Chiefs must prioritize re-signing key players like defensive tackle Chris Jones and cornerback L’Jarius Sneed.
Evans commands a significant market value, projected at a four-year deal worth $23.8 million annually, placing him among the top earners at his position. Opting to draft and develop a promising wide receiver such as Mitchell not only provides the team with financial flexibility but also aligns with their long-term goals.
At just 21 years old, Mitchell offers immense potential to thrive within head coach Andy Reid’s offensive scheme, making him an attractive prospect for the Chiefs as they aim to fortify their roster for future success. Patrick Mahomes would certainly be happy to have another weapon.
Want the latest NFL and NCAA Football analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click here. Interested in reading storylines and analysis about the NBA? Check out our partner NBA Analysis Network.
