Chiefs are reportedly interested in trading for Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (Getty Images)
He recorded 1,282 receiving yards as a rookie, showing the speed and big-play ability that made him an attractive first-round pick in 2024. His production fell to 707 yards in 2025, however, and his numbers have dropped further this season, with 10 catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns entering the latest reported trade discussions. Thomas is only 24, and a change of team might give him a better chance to rebuild his confidence and find a consistent role. His current four-year rookie deal is worth around $15 million and includes a fifth-year team option, giving the Chiefs a chance to add a young receiver without committing immediately to a major veteran contract.
The Chiefs are among three teams interested in acquiring Thomas, alongside the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders, according to Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio. The Kansas City Chiefs may have found a potential answer to their wide receiver problems in Jacksonville Jaguars standout Brian Thomas Jr. With Andy Reid’s team coming off a disappointing loss to the Denver Broncos, the need for a reliable deep threat has become harder to ignore. Thomas, who is still playing on his rookie contract, has emerged as a possible trade target ahead of the NFL deadline. A reunion with Tyreek Hill remains another option, but his injury recovery and legal concerns make that route less straightforward. Kansas City must now weigh immediate help against the risks of each move. Kansas City reportedly views the Jacksonville receiver as its preferred target, with Indianapolis Colts wideout Josh Downs serving as a possible alternative. Thomas has the potential to address a clear need in the Chiefs’ passing game. That decline raises questions, but it could also create an opportunity for Kansas City. ESPN’s Ben Solak also identified Kansas City as a possible destination, suggesting Thomas could be nearing the end of his time in Jacksonville. Still, a trade is far from certain. The Jaguars have little reason to move a talented young receiver unless another team makes an offer worth considering. Kansas City must decide how much draft capital it is willing to spend on potential rather than recent production.