Wide Receiver Series – Short Brief: #5 Richie James (His Make It or Break It Year)

David Bell

There is plenty to like about WR/KR Richie James. See the stat sheet below, but pay particular attention to the last item in the list for the playoff stats!

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Richie’s postseason numbers are eye-opening

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This view of why James is a Chief stands on its own right there in black and white. James matriculated through Middle Tennessee State, a particular school for which the Chiefs have fondness. Now heading into his sixth season, the diminutive WR (5-9, 185 LB) is setting the stage to advance his career with the Kingdom. He is 27 years old, heading into the 2023 season. James has increased his numbers each season, first with the 49ers and then with the Giants. I would see his potential this season as a make-it or break-it year. This is the time that James must elevate his game with Kansas City. Age 27 is that mystical point of demarcation.

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.Stats Courtesy of the NFL (He essentially did not see the field in 2021, his last season with the 49ers)

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The progression shows that James has become a solid receiver, though undervalued and under-utilized. Perhaps the Kick Return skill is the most valuable added quality that makes James appealing for the active roster though he was not used the past two seasons for that purpose. As you can see from the numbers below, James only appeared in 11 games in 2020. I must say that the reduced usage at Frisco and later the Giants is something I wonder about.

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Fox Sports Stats

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James has also been utilized as a punt return specialist. Here are the numbers for Punt Returns:

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Stats courtesy of the NFL

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James’s only season with the Giants saw him with 57 receptions for 569 yards and 4 TDs. I believe these stats are dependable, and the specialist role is an added benefit that the Chiefs truly need since both Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore appear to be aligned for heavier usages as wideouts for Patrick Mahomes.

After signing with the Chiefs, James observed after playing for Mike Kafka, now the Giants Offensive Coordinator and a former KC Coaching Staff member, indicating that he loved everything about arriving in KC. James said of the Chiefs and Giants: “It’s very similar offenses, and you got the smartest and the greatest head coach you can possibly ask for.” That may be player speak, but I will take it to heart.

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James YAC in 2020 Division Playoff vs the Vikings – Jose Sanchez AP Game Photo

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How it plays out in 2023, we will be able to more accurately anticipate once we see him in action in training camp and in Preseason games. Laddie wrote about a rookie possibly superseding the ability of James to make the active roster (Nikko Remigio). Here James returning a punt for a TD (0:54).

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Here’s James returning a Kickoff for the 49ers (0:56):

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I believe what James brings to the table will be prominent in 2023 and his NFL experience will win the role. Remigio though, is an intriguing possibility (Chiefs Youth Movement and monies being an important consideration).

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As noted, only time will tell.

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David Bell — ArrowheadOne

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