The Kansas City Chiefs have done a good job this season avoiding any significant long-term injuries. However, that good fortune ended Thursday Night when Wide Receiver, Justin Watson left the game with an elbow injury. On Friday, it was learned that Watson dislocated his elbow and would miss several games. What does this mean for the Chiefs offense? Do I really need to say his name?
Whenever Kansas City Chiefs Quarterback, Patrick Mahomes had success chucking the ball downfield, Wide Receiver, Justin Watson was most prominently on the other end of those passes. On Thursday night against the Denver Broncos, the two nearly completed another one of those bombs. Instead, the ball landed on the ground and so did Watson.
In dislocating his elbow, the Chiefs already void of a top-speed receiver, lose their best deep threat. It’s unclear if the Chiefs will place Watson on injured reserve, which means he’ll miss at least four games. With his absence, unless General Manager, Brett Veach trades for another receiver, Justyn Ross is the next man up. In fact, he’s the only man up right now.
The lore of Ross and his potential has been a hot topic in Kansas City. Last night he had a few reps but was primarily used as a blocker. With the Watson injury, it’s time to take off his training wheels. He’s the only deep threat the Chiefs have. MVS has been a disappointment, but his primary role in the offense is to create space for Kelce in the middle of the field.
As I stated in an earlier column this morning the trio of Kadarius Toney, Rashee Rice, and Skyy Moore are gaining confidence. It’ll take time for them to be comfortable in this offense, and honestly, that might not happen until November.
The Chiefs next game is a week from Sunday when they host the Los Angeles Chargers. So, they have enough time to tweak the game plan and give Ross the kind of reps he deserves. To date, he’s worked hard, never complained, and shown enough flashes of potential, that are worthy of an opportunity.
It’s quite possible he could have the same impact on the offense as Isaiah Pacheco had a year ago when he replaced the injured Clyde Edwards Helaire. Ross has the potential to make game-changing plays, but his NFL experience is next to nothing. However, unless Veach makes a trade, Ross should get his chance.
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