JUST INChiefs Considered Best Fit for Top WR Trade Option
The Kansas City Chiefs, currently 5-0 heading into Week 7, are viewed as a strong potential destination for a wide receiver trade. After a well-timed bye week, the team is recovering from a rough series of injuries. Running back Isiah Pacheco is out for an extended period, and wide receivers Marquise Brown and Rashee Rice are sidelined for the season. JuJu Smith-Schuster delivered an impressive performance in Week 5, racking up seven catches for 130 yards and a touchdown, but his status for Week 7 is uncertain due to a hamstring injury.
While quarterback Patrick Mahomes has expressed confidence in the current roster, there’s growing speculation that the Chiefs should bolster their receiving corps.
CBS Sports’ Tyler Sullivan suggested the Chiefs pursue Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson as a trade target. Sullivan pointed out that although Kansas City has first-round pick Xavier Worthy and saw good production from Smith-Schuster, adding Johnson would enhance Mahomes’ options. Despite playing for a struggling Carolina offense, Johnson has been productive and could quickly become a key target for Mahomes.
Sullivan noted that Johnson, a versatile route runner with reliable hands, could improve the Chiefs’ passing game. In 2024, Johnson has recorded 29 receptions for 340 yards and three touchdowns. With his contract set to expire after the season, acquiring him could cost Kansas City a fourth- or fifth-round draft pick, similar to past trades for top-tier receivers like Davante Adams and Amari Cooper.
Even if the Chiefs don’t re-sign Johnson in the offseason, adding him as a short-term asset could be crucial as they push for a third consecutive Super Bowl title.