KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Nick Keizer didn’t make the 53-man roster last season, but after one year with the practice squad, the tight end continues to catch his teammates' attention during training camp.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes said he noticed Keizer's improvement right away.
“What’s impressed me the most is the way that he is able to correct things and do things the right way the next time, and then have success with some of the different stuff he’s learned from Travis (Kelce) and some of the guys from last year,” Mahomes said.
The organization is taking notice too, as Keizer was the first player signed to a Reserve/Future deal by the Chiefs after Super Bowl LIV.
“You’re really seeing his game evolve... You’re seeing how he’s seeing the older guys do it and have success in their game," Mahome said, "...then he’s adding it to his game and then finding stuff that’s he’s good at."
Keizer continues to get the No. 2 reps oppositeKelce in camp, as he absorbs all he can from one of the best tight ends in the league. Keizer said the veteran's influence has helped him grow his game.
“Spending a year here and learning the offense being behind Trav (Kelce) and Blake Bell last year was a big year for me to absorb everything," Keizer said, "and now I’m able to use that and move forward and grow everyday.”
As the young talent continues to progress and fight for his spot, it only helps to have QB 1 voicing support.
"When you have guys like that who can learn from veteran guys on the team, then you have guys that can go out there and have success on the field," Mahomes said.
Although its too soon to tell, Keizer could secure the No. 2 spot Blake Bell left vacant when he signed with the Cowboys. Opportunities also can arise from injury, while Chiefs Tight End Deon Yelder continues to nurse a groin strain.
