Just because the Kansas City Chiefs won it all last season doesn’t mean they’re immune to decisions backfiring. Kansas City signed wide receiver Richie James after their latest Super Bowl win, hoping he could contribute to the team’s offense and special teams in 2023. Well, after eight weeks of the regular season, both sides are working to find James a new home.
The #Chiefs and WR Richie James are exploring trade possibilities, per source. James – who's on IR but would be healthy for a new team – appears the odd man out after Mecole Hardman trade. James had 50 catches for 569 yards and four touchdowns for the Giants in 2022.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 30, 2023
Last year, Richie James racked up 569 receiving yards and 174 punt return yards in 17 games with the New York Giants. This season, he has one catch for six yards while only adding 24 punt return yards in two games. James injured his MCL which led to his tenure on the Kansas City Chiefs’ IR. While he was injured, the team brought back Mecole Hardman, leaving James without a clear spot when he returns soon.
This is James’ fifth year in the NFL. His versatility offensively and on special teams should make him desirable to a few teams in the league. Where his next destination may be, if he moves, is yet to be determined.
The Kansas City Chiefs Have Struggled at the WR Position All Season
The Kansas City Chiefs may be 6-2, but their typically world-class offense hasn’t been the team’s strength this season. Beginning with a brutal Week 1 performance, Kansas City’s receivers are seen as the team’s weakest position. Currently, the Chiefs are tied for the NFL lead in drops and have the third-highest drop rate. Tight end Travis Kelce unsurprisingly leads the team in receiving statistics, but a truly dangerous number two hasn’t emerged behind him on the outside.
So, Kansas City simultaneously needs WR help while actively shopping one of their newly-signed pass-catching weapons. That’s the type of season that it has been for the AFC-west leaders’ offense. They’re still 12th in scoring, but the Chiefs have left plenty of points on the board. The time is almost up for the reigning champs to find a solution.