Chiefs’ tight end history suggests one UDFA could make a surprise roster run

There is significant optimism surrounding undrafted tight end Jake Briningstool within the Kansas City Chiefs organization, extending beyond his own proven talent and solid college production at Clemson (124 catches, 1,313 yards, 16 touchdowns). This hope stems largely from the Chiefs' established history of successfully identifying and developing undrafted talent at the tight end position, exemplified by current star Travis Kelce and several others.

The article details multiple examples of undrafted tight ends who became contributors for the Chiefs: Jody Fortson, a converted wide receiver who developed on the practice squad and became a red-zone threat; Blake Bell, a former college quarterback who provided reliable depth; Anthony Fasano, a veteran who offered dependable blocking; Demetrius Harris, a college basketball player with no football experience who developed into a solid No. 2 tight end over five seasons (57 receptions, 605 yards, 6 TDs); and Nick Keizer, who worked his way up from the practice squad to play a key role as a blocker and special teams contributor in 16 games.

While acknowledging the Chiefs' strong developmental track record, the article also notes that both Briningstool (who surprisingly went undrafted) and fellow rookie Tre Watson possess their own promising credentials. The consistent pattern of undrafted tight ends exceeding expectations and contributing over several seasons provides tangible reason for optimism regarding the current rookie free agents' chances to make an impact.