Tyquan Thornton & Jason Brownlee: Chiefs Roster Hopefuls? Speed vs. Potential

Sep 06, 2025

Tyquan Thornton and Jason Brownlee: A Chiefs Roster Battle Brews

The Kansas City Chiefs, always striving for offensive dominance, are evaluating their wide receiver options heading into the 2024 season. While established stars like Travis Kelce and emerging talents are cornerstones of their passing game, the battle for the remaining roster spots at wide receiver promises to be fierce. Two players in particular, Tyquan Thornton and Jason Brownlee, present intriguing skillsets that could potentially land them a coveted place in Andy Reid's offense.

This article delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Thornton and Brownlee, analyzing their potential fit within the Chiefs' system and assessing their chances of making the final roster. We'll consider factors like speed, route running, blocking ability, special teams contributions, and the overall depth chart at the wide receiver position.

Tyquan Thornton: The Speed Demon Looking for a Breakout

Tyquan Thornton, drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft, immediately turned heads with his blazing speed. Clocking a 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Thornton possesses elite speed that can stretch defenses vertically. Acquired by the Chiefs to bolster their receiving corp Thornton provides a different dimension that the Chiefs have been looking for since the departure of speedsters such as Tyreek Hill.

Thornton's Strengths: Raw Speed and Vertical Threat

• Elite Speed: Thornton's sub-4.3 speed is a game-changer. He can outrun defensive backs and create separation downfield, opening up opportunities for deep passes.
• Vertical Threat: His ability to consistently win deep routes forces defenses to respect his speed, potentially creating more space underneath for other receivers and tight ends.
• Potential Mismatch Nightmare: Thornton's speed can create favorable matchups against linebackers or safeties in certain formations, giving the Chiefs' offense a strategic advantage.

Thornton's Weaknesses: Route Refinement and Consistency

Despite his immense speed, Thornton faces challenges in other areas of his game that could hinder his ability to crack the Chiefs' roster.

• Route Running: While his speed is undeniable, Thornton's route running needs refinement. He needs to improve his ability to make sharp cuts, create separation in intermediate routes, and understand route concepts.
• Catch Consistency: Drops have been an issue for Thornton. He needs to improve his hands and concentration to become a more reliable target.
• Physicality: Thornton's slight frame can be a disadvantage against physical cornerbacks. He needs to become stronger and more assertive at the line of scrimmage.
• Production: Across two seasons with the Patriots Thornton only amassed 559 yards and 3 touchdowns. He will need to improve his overall production to make the Chiefs Roster.

Thornton's Fit in the Chiefs' Offense

The Chiefs' offense, orchestrated by Andy Reid, is known for its creativity and ability to utilize players' strengths. Thornton's speed could be a valuable asset in stretching the field and creating opportunities for other receivers. The threat of his speed alone can help create a more open field for teammates. However, to truly thrive in this system, Thornton must demonstrate improved route running and catch consistency.

The Chiefs love to use speed and play action fakes which makes Thornton a valuable asset on the field. When defenses have to respect the running game, it allows for players such as Thornton to get open on play action routes and make big plays.

Jason Brownlee: The Undrafted Gem with Upside

Jason Brownlee, an undrafted free agent, brings a different set of skills to the table. While he may not possess Thornton's elite speed, Brownlee boasts a combination of size, strength, and contested-catch ability that makes him an intriguing prospect. He spent time on the New York Jets practice squad in 2023.

Brownlee's Strengths: Size, Strength, and Contested Catches

• Size and Strength: Brownlee's physical build allows him to win contested catches and fight for extra yards after the catch.
• Contested Catch Ability: He excels at high-pointing the ball and making tough catches in traffic, making him a valuable red-zone target.
• Blocking: Brownlee demonstrates a willingness to block, which is highly valued by the Chiefs' coaching staff.
• Potential: As an undrafted free agent, Brownlee has a high ceiling. With good coaching and development, he could become a valuable asset to the Chiefs' offense.

Brownlee's Weaknesses: Speed and Route Refinement

Like Thornton, Brownlee also has areas where he needs to improve to increase his chances of making the Chiefs' roster.

• Speed: Brownlee lacks the elite speed of Thornton, which limits his ability to consistently create separation downfield.
• Route Running: His route running needs refinement. He needs to become more precise and efficient in his movements.
• Experience: As an undrafted free agent, Brownlee lacks the experience of more established players. He needs to quickly learn the Chiefs' playbook and adapt to the speed of the NFL game.

Brownlee's Fit in the Chiefs' Offense

Brownlee's size and contested-catch ability could make him a valuable asset in the red zone and on third downs. His willingness to block is also a plus, as the Chiefs value receivers who are willing to contribute in the running game. He could provide another big body target alongside Travis Kelce in the red zone allowing for more varied play calls.

Comparing Thornton and Brownlee: A Head-to-Head Analysis

To better understand their chances of making the Chiefs' roster, let's compare Thornton and Brownlee across key areas:

The Chiefs' Wide Receiver Depth Chart: An Obstacle to Overcome

The Chiefs' wide receiver depth chart presents a significant challenge for both Thornton and Brownlee. While the exact composition of the roster is subject to change, here's a general overview of the competition they face:

• Locks: Travis Kelce (TE), Marquise Brown, Rashee Rice
• Likely: Skyy Moore, Justin Watson
• Contenders: Tyquan Thornton, Jason Brownlee, Justyn Ross, Cornell Powell, Nikko Remigio

Based on this, Thornton and Brownlee are competing for potentially one or two roster spots. Their performance in training camp and preseason games will be crucial in determining their fate.

The Importance of Special Teams

In addition to their offensive contributions, special teams performance can be a deciding factor in making the final roster. Players who excel on special teams are often valued for their versatility and ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game. Both Thornton and Brownlee will need to demonstrate their willingness and ability to contribute on special teams to improve their chances.

The Chiefs look to use players who are willing to take on special teams roles, it is another avenue to get on the field for the younger players.

What They Need to Show in Training Camp and Preseason

To impress the Chiefs' coaching staff and increase their chances of making the roster, Thornton and Brownlee need to focus on the following during training camp and preseason:

Tyquan Thornton:

• Improved Route Running: Demonstrate consistent and precise route running, creating separation from defensive backs.
• Catch Consistency: Eliminate drops and become a reliable target in all situations.
• Physicality: Show increased strength and assertiveness at the line of scrimmage and in contested catch situations.
• Special Teams Contributions: Excel on special teams to showcase versatility and willingness to contribute in all phases of the game.

Jason Brownlee:

• Route Refinement: Improve route running and create more separation from defensive backs.
• Speed Improvement: While he may not become a speedster, show improved acceleration and ability to get downfield.
• Consistent Hands: Secure the catches that come his way in order to gain the coaching staffs trust.
• Special Teams Contributions: Excel on special teams to showcase versatility and willingness to contribute in all phases of the game.

Expert Opinions and Analysis

Several analysts have weighed in on Thornton's and Brownlee's chances of making the Chiefs' roster:

[Hypothetical Analyst 1]: "Thornton's speed is undeniable, but he needs to show significant improvement in his route running and catch consistency to earn a spot. If he can become a reliable deep threat, he could be a valuable asset for the Chiefs."

[Hypothetical Analyst 2]: "Brownlee's size and contested-catch ability are intriguing, but he needs to demonstrate that he can separate from defensive backs and contribute on special teams to make the roster. He provides a unique skill set that they may want in the receiver room."

The Verdict: Who Has the Edge?

Predicting which player will ultimately make the Chiefs' roster is challenging, as several factors will influence the decision. However, based on their current skillsets and the team's needs, here's a tentative assessment:

• Tyquan Thornton: Thornton's elite speed gives him a higher ceiling, but he needs to show significant improvement in his route running and catch consistency. If he can put it all together, he has the potential to be a valuable weapon for the Chiefs.
• Jason Brownlee: Brownlee's size, strength, and contested-catch ability give him a solid foundation, but he needs to demonstrate that he can separate from defensive backs and contribute on special teams. His willingness to block could also give him an edge.

Ultimately, the battle for the final roster spots at wide receiver will come down to performance in training camp and preseason games. Both Thornton and Brownlee have the potential to make the team, but they need to prove that they can contribute to the Chiefs' offense and special teams.

The Impact of the Offseason Changes

The Kansas City Chiefs are entering a new era with wide receivers following the loss of Mecole Hardman in free agency. The team has also signed players such as Marquise Brown to help bolster the receiver room. These changes directly impact Thornton and Brownlee, as the Chiefs need to replace the production left by Hardman and others. With a strong offseason the Chiefs can be in a great position for the 2024-2025 season.

The Chiefs are going to look to see who can contribute the fastest and at the cheapest price. Brownlee being an undrafted free agent has a very low cap hit while Thornton may have a higher cap hit. The financial aspects will play a part in determining if either player makes the team.

Final Thoughts

The competition for roster spots on the Kansas City Chiefs is always intense, and the wide receiver position is no exception. Tyquan Thornton's speed and Jason Brownlee's potential make them intriguing prospects, but they face significant challenges in cracking the final roster. Their performance in training camp and preseason games will be crucial in determining their fate. Chiefs fans will be watching closely to see if either player can emerge as a valuable contributor to the team's quest for another Super Bowl championship.

The Chiefs are Super Bowl contenders every year, and they must find players that they can trust to get on the field. It will be an uphill battle for both Thornton and Brownlee, but with a great offseason, they have a chance to make the team.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are Tyquan Thornton's biggest strengths?

Tyquan Thornton's biggest strength is his elite speed. He ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, making him one of the fastest players in the league. This speed allows him to stretch defenses vertically and create separation downfield.

2. What are Jason Brownlee's biggest strengths?

Jason Brownlee's biggest strengths are his size, strength, and contested-catch ability. He excels at high-pointing the ball and making tough catches in traffic, making him a valuable red-zone target. He is also a willing blocker, which is valued by the Chiefs' coaching staff.

3. What are Tyquan Thornton's biggest weaknesses?

Tyquan Thornton's biggest weaknesses are his route running and catch consistency. He needs to improve his ability to make sharp cuts, create separation in intermediate routes, and understand route concepts. Drops have also been an issue for him, and he needs to become a more reliable target.

4. What are Jason Brownlee's biggest weaknesses?

Jason Brownlee's biggest weaknesses are his speed and route refinement. He lacks the elite speed of some other receivers, which limits his ability to consistently create separation downfield. His route running also needs refinement, and he needs to become more precise and efficient in his movements.

5. How important is special teams performance for making the Chiefs' roster?

Special teams performance is very important for making the Chiefs' roster. Players who excel on special teams are often valued for their versatility and ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game. Both Thornton and Brownlee will need to demonstrate their willingness and ability to contribute on special teams to improve their chances.

6. What is the Chiefs' current wide receiver depth chart?

The Chiefs' current wide receiver depth chart is as follows: Locks: Travis Kelce (TE), Marquise Brown, Rashee Rice. Likely: Skyy Moore, Justin Watson. Contenders: Tyquan Thornton, Jason Brownlee, Justyn Ross, Cornell Powell, Nikko Remigio. This is subject to change based on performance and injuries.

7. What do Tyquan Thornton and Jason Brownlee need to show in training camp and preseason?

Tyquan Thornton needs to show improved route running, catch consistency, physicality, and special teams contributions. Jason Brownlee needs to show route refinement, speed improvement, Consistent Hands and special teams contributions.

8. What are the key factors that will determine who makes the roster?

The key factors that will determine who makes the roster include: performance in training camp and preseason games, route running, catch consistency, size and strength, blocking ability, special teams contributions, and overall fit within the Chiefs' offensive system.

9. What impact do offseason changes have on roster hopefuls?

The offseason changes play a huge role on players on the fringe. Players who were expected to easily make the team may now be fighting for a roster spot. The team needs to replace the production left by players who departed and look to have the cheapest options on the team to make it.

10. Why did the Chiefs trade for Tyquan Thornton?

The Chiefs traded for Tyquan Thornton to add speed and a vertical threat to their offense. They likely see potential in his athleticism and believe that their coaching staff can help him refine his skills and become a more consistent player.