Thornton flashed as a downfield option in 2025, his first full campaign with the Chiefs after having spent the early part of his career with the Patriots, who drafted him 50th overall in 2022. Injuries limited Thornton to 14 regular-season appearances with Kansas City last year, though in that span he managed a career-best 19-438-3 line (36 targets) while also piling up 475 yards as a kick returner. Thornton could carve out a meaningful role as the No. 3 receiver in 2026, with Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy drawing most of the defensive attention. However, Kansas City's frequent use of multi-TE sets featuring Travis Kelce limits the overall ceiling for the third wideout in this offense.