As far as the AFC West 2025 draft class as a whole goes, much of the focus has been at the running back position. And it’s not difficult to see why, either. Both the Raiders and Chargers grabbed a running back in Day 1, with the Broncos taking their guy at the position in round 2. The Chiefs elected not to participate in the running back sweepstakes.
Kansas City did, however, join the rest of their division mates in the wide receiver free-for-all.
The AFC West wide receiver sweepstakes began in Round 2 when Los Angeles welcomed Ole Miss pass-catcher Tre Harris. Three selections later, TCU’s Jack Bech joined the division as a member of the Silver and Black. Illinois receiver Pat Bryant heard his name called towards the end of Day 2; he became part of the Broncos’ organization.
As for the Chiefs, their drafted receiver came by way of the 133rd-overall pick on Day 3. It was a good one, though: Utah State’s Jalen Royals.
Not only did each AFC West team add a receiver through this year’s draft, but each of the four should be an immediate contributor for their new team. Harris and Bech will likely walk into starting jobs with Bryant and Royals almost certainly rotating in often for their respective clubs—and potentially earning even larger roles.
The question is, which one of the four will enjoy the best rookie season among their newfound division rivals?
If their ’24 campaigns are any indication of what’s going to happen this year, that question is almost impossible to answer. Bech and Harris, most notably, enjoyed near-identical seasons during their final year in college. While Bech caught 62 passes, Harris caught 60. And while Bech totaled 1,034 yards, Harris totaled 1,030.
Bryant was close behind, too, notching 984 yards on 54 receptions.
Unfortunately for the Royals, a foot injury prematurely ended his ’24 campaign. However, in 2023, the Utah State alum was able to compile a 1,080-yard, 71-catch season that welcomed 15 touchdowns.
Let’s hear your opinion. Cast your vote below for which AFC West rookie receiver will have the best rookie season.
Cast your vote below for which AFC West rookie receiver will have the best rookie season.
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