Patrick Mahomes just got a shiny new toy for his receiving corps

The Chiefs receiving corps added a new piece on Friday with ex-Giants WR Richie James signing on to catch passes from Patrick Mahomes.

Patrick Mahomes will have no shortage of targets in 2023 as the Chiefs continue to stock their receiving corps.

Kansas City lost JuJu Smith-Schuster, last year’s leading wide receiver, Mecole Hardman and Justin Watson in free agency. While the prospect of adding a pass catcher like Odell Beckham Jr. loomed large over the spring, the team has instead gone the cheaper route by giving under-the-radar players a chance. They extended futures contracts to guys like John Ross, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Cornell Powell, Ty Fryfogle and Jerrion Ealy.

Now, according to Mike Garafolo, they’ve gone for a breakout player from the Giants: Richie James.

Richie James will look to build off career year with Chiefs

James started his career with the 49ers but his role on offense was somewhat limited, with more of a focus on special teams. He got the chance to contribute more heavily with the Giants last year, catching 57 passes for 569 yards and four touchdowns, all career highs.

After serving as New York’s second leading receiver in 2022, Richie will hope to continue to take steps forward as a receiver.

It feels like a smart decision for Richie to join the Chiefs. Patrick Mahomes has a penchant for elevating his receivers. Even after sending Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins, KC’s offense didn’t skip a beat as Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling stepped into major roles.

Smith-Schuster’s production, second to only Travis Kelce, needs to be filled by someone. Maybe it’ll be Kadarius Toney, who was traded from the Chiefs to the last October. Or it could be Valdes-Scantling taking on more responsibility. Or maybe it’s James’ role to command. He’ll get a shot.

As it stands, Kansas City receiving corps doesn’t have many bonafide stars. What it does have is a bunch of guys with the potential to shine as Mahomes runs the show.