OTAs and minicamp are the times when rookies get a chance to show the coaching staff what they can do in the classroom, and also on the field, and Kansas City Chiefs running back Brashard Smith is doing just that.
Smith, who was a receiver for his first three years in college with Miami, made the switch to running back in 2024 with SMU, so he has some versatility to his game.
And it might be that versatility that earns him a roster spot in the coming months, and it has already been on display early this offseason.
As OTAs got underway, quarterback Patrick Mahomes hit Smith with a sublime deep pass, per Nick Jacobs of KSHB41, a sign that the Chiefs might be bringing the deep ball back as offensive coordinator, and Mahomes stated earlier this week.
Granted, Mahomes was throwing against air, as defenders aren't allowed to get physical due to the CBA, but it is a good sign that Brashard can not only get downfield, but be an option and then haul in the pass from Mahomes.
Smith will be a big watch as training camp gets underway as he looks to establish himself as part of the running back and receiver rooms for head coach Andy Reid.
When the pads come on, we will get a better indication of how Smith will fare and where his place is on the depth chart, but the fact that he and Mahomes are already connecting on deep passes is a good start.
Now, Brashard just has to maintain it.
