The Kansas City Chiefs have made a habit of turning overlooked prospects into key contributors — especially when it comes to undrafted free agents (UDFAs). From Charvarius Ward to Tershawn Wharton, the team’s ability to find and develop hidden gems has been a hallmark of their roster-building success. Now, with tight end Jake Briningstool joining the team as a UDFA in 2025, the stage may be set for another breakout story.

🧱 A Perfect System for Growth

Kansas City’s system — led by Andy Reid and tight ends coach Tom Melvin — is known for developing versatile tight ends. With Travis Kelce nearing the end of his Hall of Fame career, the team is quietly exploring long-term options at the position. Briningstool, a former standout at Clemson, arrives with the size (6’6”), catch radius, and route-running skills that fit perfectly within the Chiefs’ offensive scheme.

Despite going undrafted, Briningstool was projected by some scouts as a Day 3 pick. His fall out of the draft was likely due to a crowded tight end class and questions about his blocking — but in Kansas City, development is part of the process.

🔍 Why He Stands Out

Briningstool brings a natural feel for finding soft spots in coverage and can be a mismatch nightmare in the red zone. He showed flashes of big-play ability at Clemson, hauling in 7 touchdowns during his junior season. With Mahomes under center and a creative offensive system in place, Briningstool could find opportunities quickly — especially in two-TE sets.

His work ethic has already earned praise from coaches during rookie minicamp, and his frame gives him immediate upside as a receiving threat.

📚 A History of UDFA Success

The Chiefs’ track record with UDFAs speaks volumes:

Charvarius Ward (CB): Became a full-time starter and later earned a major free-agent contract.

Tershawn Wharton (DL): Played meaningful snaps on a Super Bowl-winning defense.

Tommy Townsend (P): UDFA turned All-Pro punter.

If Briningstool can follow that same path, he might be the latest name added to Kansas City’s list of homegrown surprises.

🚀 What Comes Next?

With training camp approaching, Briningstool will have to prove himself amid a crowded tight end room that includes veterans and recent draft picks. But given his receiving upside, football IQ, and the Chiefs’ need for a long-term option at TE, don’t be surprised if he starts turning heads.

In Kansas City, undrafted doesn’t mean unwanted — and Jake Briningstool may be the next hidden gem to rise.