With head coach Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs choosing not to select a wide receiver in this year’s NFL Draft, Gehrig Dieter sees an opportunity to not only crack the 53-man roster bust also become a contributor.
An undrafted free agent from the University of Alabama after the 2016 season, the Indiana native brings size, speed, reliable hands, route running, special teams and an overall toughness to the Chiefs that it needs moving forward with a young team.
According to B.J. Kissel, a reporter for Chiefs.com, Dieter was one of five players (three receivers) attending the first week of rookie minicamp. For someone who played on three different collegiate programs, he was one of the highlights from Sunday’s practice.
Dieter caught a variety of passes – including some in tight coverage. He showcased an ability to elevate over defensive backs and make plays.
The 6-foot-3, 208-pounder carried this skill set at Southern Methodist University, Bowling Green State University and Alabama to the tune of 1,875 career receiving yards with 16 touchdowns on 154 receptions. His efforts at Bowling Green in 2015 and with the Crimson Tide in 2016 led him to conference titles in both years.
To add on his list of accomplishments, Dieter was also the only player in modern football history to record a touchdown reception for three different division one institutions — according to the College Football Hall of Fame.
Despite the Chiefs inking Watkins to a three-year, $48 million deal, the fifth-year veteran has had issues with staying healthy. He’s played one full season as a pro, which was his rookie year in 2014 with the Buffalo Bills. Having the combination of Watkins and Tyreek Hill outside with Dieter in the slot (or outside) and Travis Kelce at tight end bodes well for Patrick Mahomes II.
While he was on the practice squad last season, Dieter spend a lot of time with Mahomes and Kelce catching passes.
He has a natural feel for the game and it’s only a matter of time before Reid and company move him to the active roster.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
