Chiefs Add Justin Watson to Practice Squad After Bye Week
After the bye week, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid met with local media via video call on Monday. Before taking any questions, he revealed the Chiefs are signing former wide receiver Justin Watson to the practice squad. The move comes as the team looks to bolster its receiving options while dealing with recent injuries on the roster.
Why Andy Reid Chose to Re‑sign Watson
“He was a good player for us when he was here,” Reid said. “Obviously, he can run, and he’s fast; he has great size. He’s willing to do everything; he knows the offense; he’s a smart kid.” Reid highlighted Watson’s ability to contribute immediately, noting that the 30‑year‑old veteran “should be fine and good to go” after a brief review period.
Watson previously played for the Chiefs from 2022‑2024, catching 64 passes over three seasons—49 of them on throws 10 or more yards downfield, according to Pro Football Focus. After signing a free‑agent deal with the Houston Texans in 2025, he appeared in two games before a calf/Achilles injury landed him on the Reserve/Injured list. The Chiefs see his experience and downfield threat as valuable as the season’s final games approach.
Watson’s College Highlights and Pro‑Day Dash
Before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected him in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Watson ran a 4.42‑second 40‑yard dash at the University of Pennsylvania Pro Day and posted a 40‑inch vertical leap—tying for first among receivers at that year’s NFL Combine. Those numbers still underscore his “great size” and speed, attributes Reid emphasized when describing why the Chiefs value his return.
Impact of Tyquan Thornton’s Ankle Injury
To make room for the practice‑squad signing, Reid explained that wide receiver Tyquan Thornton (dislocated ankle) will be placed on the Reserve/Injured list and linebacker Cam Jones will be signed to the active roster. Thornton had been the team’s primary downfield threat, and his absence will force the Chiefs to adjust their pass‑game tactics for the remainder of the season.
“Tyquan was doing a tremendous job,” Reid said. “It was nice to see Xavier get a deep one in the game also; we know he can do all that. Then the other guys will mix in; they all have good speed and ability to get down the field as needed.”
How Cam Jones Earned a Spot on the Active Roster
Jones’ promotion replaces the roster spot left open by Thornton’s injury. The move signals confidence in Jones’ linebacker play after he performed well in training camp and preseason. While specific stats were not released, the Chiefs view Jones as a versatile defender who can contribute on special teams and in coverage.
Roster Implications for the Receiving Corps
When asked about the potential ripple effects of Thornton’s injury, Reid noted that wide receiver Xavier Worthy remains a focal point. “Xavier actually had a strong game the other day,” Reid began. “He’s going to continue to be a target, for sure. I don’t know how much his role will change. He has a big part of the pass game to start with, so I’m sure that will continue on.”
Reid also sounded open to seeing more from rookie wideout Cyrus Allen. “I think he would probably work into the mix there a little bit more,” Reid shared. “He’s a good football player; even though he’s young, he has good ability.” This suggests the Chiefs could lean on Allen and second‑year wideout Jalen Royals to fill the void left by Thornton’s absence.
Depth Chart Changes and Future Look
Kansas City should absolutely see what players like Allen and Royals can do with more playing time after the Thornton injury, but don’t be surprised if you see Watson—presumably No. 84 again—streaking downfield on a deep pass from quarterback Patrick Mahomes soon.
With the practice‑squad addition of Watson, the Chiefs have added a veteran who understands the offense and possesses the size and speed to challenge defenses over the middle and deep routes. The roster moves reflect a strategic approach to maintain competitiveness while navigating injuries.
“We felt like he could come back in and, as needed, contribute. Step in and go with just a slight review, he should be fine and good to go,” Reid said of Watson’s return.
As the season progresses, the Chiefs’ ability to integrate returning veterans like Watson with emerging prospects such as Allen and Royals will be crucial. Fans can expect to see a fluid receiving corps that maximizes each player’s strengths, especially as the team prepares for the playoff push.
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