Undrafted rookie with potential to secure spot on Kansas City Chiefs' squad in 2025.
Score one for the Chiefs' rookies: The Kansas City Chiefs threw us a curveball in the draft, featuring some impressive picks and a few questionable moves. But one undrafted gem might just turn those frowns upside down if he makes the 2025 roster.
Meet Elijhah Badger, the ex-University of Florida wide receiver who's got NFL scouts buzzing. At 6 foot 1, 200 pounds, this guy's already caught the attention of some prominent sports analysts, says cbssports.com.
Christopher Trapasso, a respected analyst, had him on his second-round shortlist – a gem that slipped through the cracks draft-wise. So, why all the hype? Well, Badger's got a knack for racking up yards after the catch – something the Andy Reid/Patrick Mahomes Chiefs absolutely adore.
With the potential uncertainty surrounding Rashee Rice, Badger might step right in and light up the field for Kansas City. His ability to produce in tight spaces and his overall natural receiving talent could give him a leg up on this stacked roster.
NFL.com gave Badger a grade of 6.11, hinting that he's got the potential to develop into a starter. Lance Zierlein raved about him, saying he's "on the lighter side" but his game comes as naturally as breathing. His route-running needs improvement, but his ball skills are above average, and he's slippery with the ball in his hands.
In the 2024 season, Badger piled up 806 receiving yards and scored 4 touchdowns for his college team. His former wide receiver coach, Billy Gonzalez, had nothing but good things to say about Badger, praising his considerable energy and attention to detail.
Badger's 4.43 time in the 40 ranked him amongst the top six receivers tested. He'll need to fight for a spot against some impressive competition – Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Jalen Royals, Skyy Moore, Nikko Remigio, Justyn Ross, Tyquan Thornton, and Jason Brownlee currently occupy the depth chart.
Rashee Rice's potential suspension for off-field issues could create an opportunity for Badger, but don't expect a lengthy absence. Reports suggest it might be as brief as three to four games, so the Chiefs' roster won't be drastically shaken up.
Could Badger be the unheralded savior the Chiefs need? Time will tell. Keep an eye out for him during training camp – he might just shock us all with his performance. 🔥🔥🔥
- Despite being undrafted, Elijhah Badger, the former University of Florida wide receiver, has caught the attention of NFL scouts and sports analysts, with Christopher Trapasso even listing him as a potential second-round pick.
- In the 2025 NFL season, Badger's natural receiving talent and ability to produce yards after the catch could give him an edge on the stacked Kansas City Chiefs roster.
- With Rashee Rice potentially facing a suspension for off-field issues, Badger could step in and make an impact for the Chiefs, especially given his above-average ball skills and elusiveness with the ball in his hands.
- In the 2024 season, Badger demonstrated his potential by racking up 806 receiving yards and scoring 4 touchdowns for his college team. His former wide receiver coach, Billy Gonzalez, praised Badger's energy and attention to detail.
- Badger's 4.43 time in the 40-yard dash ranks him amongst the top six receivers tested, indicating his speed and agility. He will need to compete with established players like Xavier Worthy, Hollywood Brown, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Jalen Royals, Skyy Moore, Nikko Remigio, Justyn Ross, Tyquan Thornton, and Jason Brownlee for a spot on the Chiefs' roster.
- As the 2025 NFL season approaches, observers will be keenly watching Badger's performance during training camp to see if he lives up to the hype and becomes the unheralded savior the Chiefs need in American football, whether it's in the NFL or NCAA.
