The Kansas City Chiefs have returned to the field for an exciting three-day mandatory minicamp running from Tuesday through Thursday. The conditions on Tuesday were ideal for football, with temperatures hovering in the comfortable mid-70s as practice kicked off just before 11 a.m. Fans and players alike were treated to perfect weather, setting the stage for an engaging and productive practice session.
I will be providing comprehensive notes from both Tuesday and Wednesday practices, culminating with a fitness test scheduled for Thursday. Let’s dive into the highlights and key observations from Tuesday’s practice:
Key Attendance and Player Participation Highlights
Tuesday’s practice saw strong attendance overall, with only three notable absences. Kicker Harrison Butker was out due to illness, while defensive end BJ Thompson and offensive guard Joe Thuney were sidelined due to respective health issues. In Butker’s absence, safety Justin Reid stepped in to handle kicking duties, showcasing the team’s depth and adaptability.
Despite some players being limited, defensive tackles Isaiah Buggs and Chris Jones, running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and wide receiver Kadarius Toney participated actively in practice on Tuesday. This inclusion is promising for the team’s offensive strategies moving forward.
While they were present, linebacker Leo Chenal, cornerback Jaylen Watson, and running back Isiah Pacheco had restricted roles during Tuesday’s drills. Chenal and Watson engaged in positional drills but did not participate in scrimmaging, whereas Pacheco contributed to seven-on-seven drills but sat out the eleven-on-eleven sessions, indicating a careful management of player workloads.
Standout Performers of the Day on Offense
Wide receiver Rashee Rice emerged as the standout performer on offense during practice.
Offensive player of the day: Rashee Rice
– Rice dominated the field, recording five catches during eleven-on-eleven drills, including three impressive touchdowns. In addition, he added three more receptions in seven-on-seven drills, with another touchdown to his name. His on-field performance clearly demonstrated that any off-field distractions have not affected his game, showcasing his readiness for the season ahead.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
On the defensive side, safety Bryan Cook made a significant impact as well.
Defensive player of the day: Bryan Cook
– Cook looked sharp and agile, showing no signs of last year’s injury setbacks. He managed to secure an interception after a tipped pass from Travis Kelce during seven-on-seven drills. Later in eleven-on-eleven, Cook also broke up another target intended for Kelce, reinforcing his role as a key player on defense.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
Offensive Insights and Key Plays During Practice
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes nearly connected with pass receiver Hollywood Brown on two occasions but fell just short.
Offensive notes (11-on-11)
– The Chiefs are focusing on enhancing their downfield passing game, and Mahomes’ two best attempts were just out of Brown’s reach. I noticed defensive back Chamarri Conner was in pursuit of both passes, showcasing the defensive effort to limit big plays. Additionally, tight end Noah Gray made an impressive diving catch early in the practice.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
Wide receiver Skyy Moore successfully caught a touchdown pass thrown by backup quarterback Carson Wentz.
Offensive notes (11-on-11)
– Moore executed a well-timed slant route that resulted in a touchdown from Wentz, demonstrating his ability to create separation even against tight coverage. Despite some physical challenges from defenders, he maintained possession of the ball, highlighting his determination and skill. Additionally, Mahomes connected with wide receiver Justin Watson, and quarterback Chris Oladokun found Cornell Powell for touchdowns as well.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
It seems that Brown was not overly concerned about lateral passes during his time with the Arizona Cardinals. Perhaps tight end Travis Kelce should consider giving running back Louis Rees-Zammit a shot at making a play.
Offensive notes (7-on-7)
– After making a catch, Kelce attempted a lateral pass to Hollywood, which was a humorous moment as it clearly wasn’t well-prepared. However, Kelce later redeemed himself by scoring a touchdown on a clever choice play. Tight end Jared Wiley also showcased his skills by making an impressive goal-line catch from Mahomes during red zone work, proving he can compete at this level.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
Roster hopeful Nikko Remigio continued to capitalize on every opportunity given to him during practice.
Offensive notes (7-on-7)
– Remigio made a remarkable play during a broken play. He recognized that Wentz was looking in his direction and skillfully maneuvered to evade a defender, allowing him to get open for a touchdown as he backpedaled toward the far right pylon. His awareness and agility make him a player to watch.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
…and here’s a roundup of the targets throughout the day:
Patrick Mahomes’ targets
Rice (9), Kelce (7), Brown (3), Wiley (3), RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire (2), Gray (2), WR Cornell Powell, RB Deneric Prince, WR Justin Watson
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
Defensive Highlights and Player Performances
Other defensive notes
– Linebacker Jack Cochrane would have recorded a sack during the early eleven-on-eleven drills, showcasing his ability to disrupt the backfield.
– Cornerback Keith Taylor achieved two pass separations against both Mahomes and Wentz during seven-on-seven drills, highlighting his defensive prowess.
– Rookie safety Kamal Hadden demonstrated his instincts by jumping a route and nearly intercepting a pass intended for quarterback Ian Book, also during seven-on-seven drills.— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) June 11, 2024
More Stories
Denver Broncos OTAs: Key Highlights to Monitor
NFL Preseason Sunday Games: Week 2 Highlights
Philadelphia’s Most Rootable Player in Eagles News