Kansas City Chiefs rookie wide receiver Justyn Ross will miss the 2022 season after the team placed him on injured reserve Monday.
Ross, who signed out of Clemson as an undrafted free agent, recently underwent another foot surgery, Andy Reid told reporters Friday. Ross’ final season at Clemson ended early when he had foot surgery last November.
Ross caught 46 passes for 514 yards and three touchdowns in his final year with the Tigers. He missed the entire 2020 season after being diagnosed with a congenital fusion in his spine that required surgery.
He was the No. 148 prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft, according to The Athletic’s Dane Brugler.
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(Photo: Denny Medley / USA Today)
What is the significance of the injury?
Nate Taylor, Chiefs beat writer: Ross, unfortunately, becomes the first major injury this season for the Chiefs. In different circumstances, Ross could’ve been a nice surprise for the Chiefs, a potential weapon who might’ve had a number of highlights connecting with superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Instead, Ross’ journey toward making his NFL debut will be long and grueling, a rehab that will take months before the team can evaluate his athleticism at the sport’s highest level.
How will Ross’ absence test Kansas City’s receiving depth?
Taylor: This season, without Tyreek Hill, the Chiefs hope their receiving corps is known for the number of quality options for Mahomes. Ross’ injury removes what could’ve been a quality option.
Instead, the Chiefs still have five receivers — alongside star tight end Travis Kelce — that are expected to build timing and chemistry with Mahomes during the training camp: Mecole Hardman, JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Skyy Moore and Josh Gordon.
Those five receivers will be responsible for helping Mahomes maintain the potency of the Chiefs’ offense.