Tyler Brown wrote, "...Perhaps Thornton and his 4.28 speed could be an under-the-radar option for that MVS-type role, too...."
I think Thornton is a very interesting case. His ability to gain quick separation is particularly intriguing. His 10-yard split of 1.41 seconds almost set a new record. Most vertical receivers don’t build speed so quickly. That elite acceleration is a big advantage for him.
Thornton isn’t sufficiently agile for a broad route tree but could be very valuable to the Chiefs’ offense in the MVS role, exactly as stated. It’s a very narrow path and he needs to show considerable promise to earn the chance. If he can show himself better at finishing deep balls than MVS, have minimal wasted movement and become more physical, he could provide an important contribution for several years. I’m impressed with his weight gain. It’s good weight. He looks more solid.
Andy Reid and Mahomes both place a lot of value in the exact role Thornton could fill. Thornton is now with exactly the right offense, the right head coach and the right quarterback. I hope it works for him and the Chiefs.
Tyler Brown wrote, "...Perhaps Thornton and his 4.28 speed could be an under-the-radar option for that MVS-type role, too...."
I think Thornton is a very interesting case. His ability to gain quick separation is particularly intriguing. His 10-yard split of 1.41 seconds almost set a new record. Most vertical receivers don’t build speed so quickly. That elite acceleration is a big advantage for him.
Thornton isn’t sufficiently agile for a broad route tree but could be very valuable to the Chiefs’ offense in the MVS role, exactly as stated. It’s a very narrow path and he needs to show considerable promise to earn the chance. If he can show himself better at finishing deep balls than MVS, have minimal wasted movement and become more physical, he could provide an important contribution for several years. I’m impressed with his weight gain. It’s good weight. He looks more solid.
Andy Reid and Mahomes both place a lot of value in the exact role Thornton could fill. Thornton is now with exactly the right offense, the right head coach and the right quarterback. I hope it works for him and the Chiefs.