ss A Chiefs wide receiver has sent shockwaves through the NFL after voluntarily requesting to move back to the Practice Squad just to stay in Kansas City amid the team’s brutal salary-cap crunch
Kansas City, Missouri – 12/05/2025
In a surprising yet selfless move, Chiefs wide receiver Tyquan Thornton has reportedly requested to be re-signed to the practice squad, despite having multiple opportunities to chase larger contracts elsewhere. The reason? He wants to stay in Kansas City—a place that gave him a second chance and a locker room he now calls home.
“I understand where the team stands financially right now,” Thornton said after Wednesday’s walkthrough. “I’m not here for the money. I’m here because I believe I can help Mahomes and this team win another ring.”
After being released by the Patriots earlier this season, Thornton caught fire in the opening six games during Rashee Rice’s suspension—hauling in three touchdowns and averaging 20.9 yards per catch. But with Rice returning and rookie Xavier Worthy emerging as a primary threat, Thornton’s role naturally shrank.
Players in Thornton’s situation—young, fast, and flashing deep-play potential—usually leverage that momentum for a payday. But Thornton went the other direction, reportedly asking GM Brett Veach and HC Andy Reid for a practice squad deal at league minimum, just to stay in the building.
With Kansas City’s salary cap crunch tightening—and contract negotiations looming for stars like Trent McDuffie, Leo Chenal, and Chris Jones—Thornton’s decision was not just humble, but timely.
“Tyquan is part of this locker room,” said head coach Andy Reid. “More importantly, he’s someone who’s willing to sacrifice for the bigger picture. That tells you everything about his character.”
Thornton’s desire to remain in KC, even without guaranteed playing time, has made a quiet impression on both the coaching staff and front office. He continues to practice with the starters, and Mahomes has often looked his way on deep routes in scrimmages, signaling that his presence still matters.
By taking a step back financially, Thornton may have taken a leap forward in trust and long-term opportunity. In a league dominated by ego and stats, the former Baylor star just made a statement louder than any highlight catch:
He’s not just another speedster—he’s a team-first warrior in the Chiefs’ championship system.
