Chiefs rookies showcase speed and athleticism in preseason win over Buccaneers

Kansas City built a 9-0 lead at halftime in its preseason matchup against Tampa Bay, aided by three field goals from Harrison Butker, including a 69-yard kick. The Chiefs’ defense, anchored by recent draft picks, made several impact plays in the first three quarters. First-round cornerback Mansoor Delane disrupted a wide-receiver screen, forcing a loss of yardage, and second-round edge rusher R. Mason Thomas knocked down a pass on the next play.

Rookie running back Emmett Johnson recorded the game’s sole touchdown, the only score for Kansas City in the preseason. Second-year receiver Jalen Royals, a 2025 fourth-round selection, led the team with six catches for 51 yards, showing improved elusiveness after a slow start in camp. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid praised Royals, saying, "It was great to see Royals step up and have a couple nice catches… the yards after the catch were nice. He did a nice job there."

The preseason also highlighted ongoing concerns on the offensive line. Rookie invitee Kahlil Benson struggled in pass protection, leading to a false-start penalty and a strip sack on quarterback Justin Fields. Reid acknowledged the need for continued work, stating, "We don’t have all the guys out there, but I like the chances of looking at the young guys and seeing what we’ve got there. I’m OK with the O-line. We’ve got to keep working, but we’ll be all right there."

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, still recovering from a torn ACL, expressed confidence about returning for the regular season, noting his readiness to play but leaving the final decision to the coaching staff. The article also mentioned a personal tragedy involving Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver’s family, noting a request for privacy and prayers.

Overall, the preseason performance underscored the Chiefs’ depth of athletic talent on defense while revealing areas for improvement on offense ahead of the upcoming season.