By Haddy Barghouti – Spear Reporter | Justin Lockhart celebrates after scoring a touchdown over Boise State on Nov 16, 2024. (Photo by Nick Orozco- The Spear)
With the NFL Draft officially in the books, several talented players were left waiting for a call that never came. That’s where undrafted free agency steps in, and for former San Jose State senior wide receiver Justin Lockhart, it’s the perfect stage to prove he was overlooked.
After missing the 2023 season due to injury, Lockhart bounced back with the best year of his college career, recording 53 catches for 983 yards and five touchdowns.
Lockhart put on a show at SJSU’s 2025 Pro Day on March 19, running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and showcasing the versatile speed that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
The Chiefs have five returning receivers from last season who are likely to secure roster spots. Still, with added competition from draft picks and other undrafted free agents, the rest of the wide receiver room is up for grabs, giving Lockhart a real opportunity to stand out during rookie camp.
Kansas City already boasts speedsters like Xavier Worthy and Hollywood Brown. While Lockhart may not match their top-end speed, Andy Reid’s offense can always use another deep threat with reliable burst.
Lockhart had four games last season in which he recorded over 100 receiving yards, and he was used as head coach Ken Niumatalolo‘s second option, behind triple crown winner Nick Nash.
Lockhart isn’t entering a star-studded receiver room, like one led by a top-tier talent like Ja’Marr Chase, with another potential WR1 in Tee Higgins.
The Chiefs don’t have a true No. 1 wide receiver. Rashee Rice is coming off an injury, and his full potential remains uncertain. Worthy is unproven, Brown was a player the Ravens liked but ultimately didn’t see as a WR1, and JuJu Smith-Schuster, brought in for depth, has had an inconsistent career in recent years.
Jalen Royals, a fourth-round rookie, adds to the mix. Still, undrafted free agents like Lockhart are often especially hungry, eager to prove to general managers why they deserve a spot on the 53-man roster.
Additionally, the Chiefs lost DeAndre Hopkins and Justin Watson, who combined for six touchdowns during the previous season. Their departure opens up more opportunities for Lockhart to make a strong impression.
Lockhart also specialized in yards after the catch, averaging 18.5 YAC per reception, an asset for the Chiefs, who ranked third in the league with 2,407 total YAC yards last season.
Lockhart will now look to make a first impression in front of the Chiefs’ coaching staff on Saturday, where the Chiefs will open their rookie camp.
