Chiefs Agree to Sign Speedy WR Tyquan Thornton

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The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to sign wide receiver Tyquan Thornton to a two-year, $11 million deal with the potential to earn up to $14 million. Thornton, a 2022 second-round pick of the New England Patriots, emerged as a deep threat for the Chiefs' offense last season after joining the team's practice squad in November 2024. The move signals an intention by the Chiefs to feature Thornton more prominently in their offense as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 6-11 campaign in 2025.

Why it matters

The Chiefs are making key moves to rebuild their offense around star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is recovering from a torn ACL and LCL suffered late last season. Retaining Thornton, who showed big-play ability in limited action in 2025, could provide a needed boost to the passing game as the Chiefs aim to return to the Super Bowl after missing the playoffs last year.

The details

Thornton, 25, signed with the Chiefs' practice squad in November 2024 after being drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round in 2022. He emerged as Mahomes' top deep threat in September 2025, posting a career-high 438 yards and 3 touchdowns on 23.1 yards per catch across 14 games (4 starts). Despite seeing his role diminish later in the season, Thornton still tied for 21st in the NFL with 8 downfield receptions, an impressive feat given his limited playing time.

• Thornton signed with the Chiefs' practice squad in November 2024.
• In 2025, Thornton had a career-high 438 yards and 3 touchdowns across 14 games (4 starts).

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Chiefs will look to feature Thornton more prominently in their offense as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing 6-11 season in 2025 and return to the Super Bowl.