ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) Sammy Watkins made quite the impression on the first day of Kansas City Chiefs training camp on Thursday.
The veteran wide receiver is one of the newest options for first-year starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
The guys an unbelievable talent, he really is, tight end Travis Kelce said of Watkins.
Hes a high-character guy, you cant say anything wrong about him. Its been exciting just to see him come out here and work because hes such a great athlete and he makes you want to get better every single day.
Mahomes and Watkins teamed up to elicit the biggest cheer of the day from fans attending the opening of camp.
The quarterback dropped a 60-yard pass on a breezy post route to Watkins, who hauled in the over-the-shoulder catch on the run for an easy score. Mahomes said hes quickly developing a rapport on the field with the newcomer.
Hes a guy that will stay after and get extra work, a guy that wants to put the work in to be great, Mahomes said.
When you have guys like that all around our team, its easy to build chemistry and build that kind of deep ball or if its a short pass or whatever it is.
Coach Andy Reid also praised the willingness of Watkins to push himself during practice, whether its running out routes where hes a decoy or putting in extra reps.
I love Sammys attitude and his work ethic, Reid said. Hes all business, hes a quiet guy. Hes all business. I love the way he goes about, a true pro.
For the first time in his career, Watkins comes into the season healthy and with a full offseason of work. Thats helping him acclimate to Reids West Coast offense play-book.
Ive gotten the plays down but of course weve got so much to build on with chemistry and working with the guys, Watkins said.
The offense is so bright you cant sleep on it so everyday weve got to go over it and go over the installs.
The offseason addition of Watkins figures to make the Chiefs offense a puzzle for defenses this season. The team returns three 1,000-yard performers from last season, including the leagues leading rusher in Kareem Hunt. Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill topped the 1,000-yard mark in receiving yards.
Kelce, who is used to frequently facing double teams and bracket coverage, sees the addition of Watkins creating opportunities for everyone across the offense.
