Quentin Skinner Quietly Rising Ahead of NFL Draft, Chiefs and Colts Show Strong Interest
There’s a rising wide receiver prospect creating buzz behind the scenes just weeks before the NFL Draft. Quentin Skinner, a 6’5”, 195-pound wide receiver out of Kansas, is quietly building momentum and attracting serious attention. Known for burning defenders deep and making explosive plays, Skinner has now caught the eyes of two AFC teams: the Kansas City Chiefs and the Indianapolis Colts.
Skinner averaged over 22 yards per catch during his time at Kansas and has become known for his ability to stretch the field. Recently, he attended the Chiefs’ local pro day and soon after visited the Colts for an official meeting. NFL insider reports confirmed Skinner’s meetings with both teams, signaling strong interest.
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The Chiefs’ current wide receiver corps has shown cracks, especially after an underwhelming season despite winning the Super Bowl. Injuries to Rashee Rice, inconsistent performances from others like DeAndre Hopkins and Mecole Hardman, and a lack of standout plays left Kansas City’s offense needing reinforcements. Quentin Skinner, with his proven ability to haul in long passes and dominate downfield, may be just the kind of player the Chiefs need to reignite their vertical passing game.
Statistically, Skinner is impressive. Over half of his targets came on passes of 20+ yards, according to Pro Football Focus. He also contributes on special teams, adding to his value. His athletic testing wasn’t record-breaking—he posted a 4.51-second 40-yard dash and a 6.94-second three-cone drill, with a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 7.42 out of 10—but his on-field play speaks louder. Scouting reports highlight his strong catch radius, body control, and linear speed, even though he struggles slightly with getting off press coverage and lacks elite quickness off the line.
Skinner isn’t projected to be an early draft pick. In fact, he may go late in the sixth or seventh round, or potentially undrafted. But his skill set and upside resemble past late-round success stories. He’s the type of under-the-radar prospect who could thrive in the right offensive system—especially with a quarterback like Patrick Mahomes, who thrives on deep ball connections.
Meanwhile, Indianapolis is building something exciting under head coach Shane Steichen, who is molding a dynamic offense around quarterback Anthony Richardson and running back Jonathan Taylor. With Richardson’s cannon arm and desire to push the ball deep, a receiver like Skinner could fit perfectly into their scheme as a vertical playmaker.
Devin Neal Also Drawing Chiefs’ Attention
Skinner isn’t the only Kansas Jayhawk catching attention. Running back Devin Neal is also generating interest from the Chiefs following his appearance at their local pro day. With Isiah Pacheco carrying a heavy load last season and injuries thinning Kansas City’s backfield, adding a versatile back like Neal could prove wise.
Neal stands at 5’11” and weighs 213 pounds. He’s not a bruising back, but he’s elusive, slippery in tight spaces, and has the vision to find daylight. During the 2024 college football season, he rushed for over 1,260 yards and scored 16 touchdowns. He also contributed over 250 receiving yards and another touchdown, showing his versatility.
His signature moment came in a dominating performance against Colorado, where he rushed for 207 yards and 3 touchdowns and added 80 receiving yards, including a 51-yard touchdown reception. That game showcased his ability to take over and carry his team.
Neal recently became Kansas’ all-time leading rusher, a testament to his consistency and production. However, like Skinner, he has areas for improvement. He can be overly patient at times, occasionally hesitating instead of hitting the hole decisively. He’s also not yet a dependable third-down pass-catching back, which limits his ceiling in certain offensive schemes.
Still, Neal could be a valuable mid-to-late round selection, especially in a draft class deep with running back talent. If the Chiefs are looking to shore up their backfield depth, Neal provides a strong case as a reliable, dual-threat back who can step in when needed and make plays.
Conclusion
Between Skinner’s vertical explosiveness and Neal’s balanced rushing attack, Kansas may be producing two of the draft’s most overlooked yet intriguing late-round prospects. Both players offer high upside and the potential to fit well in systems like Kansas City’s or Indianapolis’, making them names to watch when draft weekend arrives.