By Matt McMullen – Chiefs.com Reporter
The Kansas City Chiefs took another step toward the 2026 season this week as the team completed the voluntary portion of the offseason training program with another set of Organized Team Activity, or “OTA,” practices.
This portion of the offseason training program, also known as “Phase 3,” is significant because – for the first time since last season ended – it allows for offensive vs. defensive drills. There’s no “live” contact taking place and the players aren’t in pads yet, but in the context of the gradual “ramp up” to full football activities, it’s a noteworthy milestone on the offseason calendar.
In terms of what took place during Wednesday’s practice, which was open to members of the media, here’s a quick rundown of what stood out:
- Wide receivers Xavier Worthy and Tyquan Thornton each hauled in multiple deep throws on the day between 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills.
- Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who once again competed in 7-on-7 drills amidst his injury recovery, found both Worthy and Thornton for touchdowns on Wednesday.
- Cornerback Mansoor Delane recorded one of the plays of the day when he knocked down a pass on a quick slant during 7-on-7 drills.
- Safety Jaden Hicks was busy during the 7-on-7 segment, knocking down multiple passes.
- Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier continued to look the part with several impressive throws during Wednesday’s practice. His favorite target on the day, rookie wide receiver Jacob De Jesus, also turned in another strong showing with three receptions during 7-on-7 drills.
- Cornerback Kaiir Elam knocked down a pass in the red zone during the 7-on-7 segment.
- Linebacker Jeffrey Bassa made a nice play to knock down a throw in the back of the end zone during 7-on-7 drills.
- Tailback Ken Walker recorded another impressive day, hauling in multiple passes and routinely demonstrating his trademark elusiveness after the catch.
- The Chiefs conducted several special teams segments on Wednesday, including field goal block and kickoff coverage. Kicker Harrison Butker connected on a 58-yard field goal as part of the drills.
- Edge-rusher Anthony Dunn knocked down a pass at the line of scrimmage during 11-on-11 drills.
- Tailback Emmett Johnson looked smooth and natural on a quick route from the backfield, catching the pass and getting upfield in a hurry amidst an 11-on-11 segment.
- Cornerback Kevin Knowles knocked down a pass in the back of the end zone during 11-on-11 drills.
Next up, the Chiefs will take the field for mandatory minicamp on June 9. Mandatory minicamp operates under the same “Phase 3” rules as OTAs, it’s just – as the name suggests – mandatory as opposed to voluntary.
