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Overlooked Chiefs Rookie Stuns with Minicamp Brilliance

Kansas City, MO – July 7, 2025

While draft hype often steals the spotlight, an overlooked rookie is making waves at the Kansas City Chiefs’ minicamp, leaving first-team defenders reeling and sparking buzz among Chiefs Kingdom, sources told ESPN on Monday. Elijhah Badger, an undrafted wide receiver from Florida, is proving his worth with standout performances.

Badger went unselected in the 2025 NFL Draft despite a stellar college career, tallying 71 catches for 1,199 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2024 at Florida after transferring from Arizona State. His minicamp debut on May 3 showcased his explosiveness, with a highlight-reel catch down the sideline against tight coverage from Trent McDuffie during 11-on-11 drills, per team reports. “He made me look silly on that route,” a defensive back admitted to coaches, underscoring Badger’s impact.

OTA Notebook: Kingsley Suamataia Embraces Fresh Start; Chiefs Defense  Dominates Practice – Chiefs Digest

The Chiefs’ coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, has taken note. Badger’s 4.45-second 40-yard dash and 20.2 yards per catch average in college signal a deep-threat capability, fitting Patrick Mahomes’ dynamic offense. GM Brett Veach, known for spotting talent, sees potential, saying, “Elijhah’s showing he can compete at this level.” This comes as the team seeks depth with Rashee Rice’s status uncertain due to a 2024 knee injury and off-field issues.

Badger’s rise eases concerns about the receiving corps, joining Xavier Worthy and Jalen Royals. His 6-foot-1, 195-pound frame and agility have impressed, with fans on social media cheering, “Badger might be our steal!” and “Undrafted gem alert!” His college resilience—overcoming eligibility hurdles—adds to his narrative.

With training camp set for July 22, Badger’s minicamp heroics could earn him a roster spot. Can this overlooked talent ignite a Super Bowl LX run? Stay tuned to ESPN for updates.

After Being “Betrayed” by Texans, Former 49ers Star – Key Piece of Super Bowl LIV Run Makes Moves Experts Believe Are Him “Calling” the Patriots
Foxborough, Massachusetts – Laken Tomlinson, the cornerstone who played a key role in the San Francisco 49ers’ Super Bowl LIV campaign, has sent shockwaves through the NFL after being unexpectedly cut by the Houston Texans. The decision came after just 10 games in the 2025 season, leading many to believe he was treated unfairly. And the moment he left Houston, Tomlinson made moves that have experts convinced his next destination is the New England Patriots. Tomlinson, with over 170 career games and virtually never missing a start, still believes he has plenty left to contribute to a playoff-contending team. Being released by the Texans in the decisive phase of the season has only strengthened his motivation to return. In recent comments, Tomlinson has repeatedly spoken about football environments that have “the right values” — and the Patriots are the name he mentions most often. In one attention-grabbing response, Tomlinson expressed deep admiration for the Patriots, from their storied tradition to the football philosophy of head coach Mike Vrabel. “I’ve always respected the way the Patriots build teams and maintain their winning tradition. Watching the philosophy Coach Vrabel brings, I see the kind of football any player would want to be part of. They work clearly, with discipline, and always know exactly what they’re aiming for.” Tomlinson’s words instantly became the talk of Boston media. The Patriots need to reinforce their offensive line to protect Drake Maye in the stretch run. Super Bowl experience, durability, and the ability to perform under high pressure make Tomlinson a perfect fit if New England wants to add a veteran presence to their line. While no official contact has been announced yet, the timing of Tomlinson’s comments and the way he spoke about the Patriots has convinced many experts that this is more than just polite praise. A player who has competed on the NFL’s biggest stage, suddenly a free agent, and publicly expressing respect for the Patriots will certainly make the Foxborough front office think. In a fierce playoff race, Tomlinson could be the experienced piece New England cannot afford to overlook.