Many people may not be aware, but a player has transformed an entire offense this season, and some may not even know his name. Former first-round pick Marquise Brown has played a noteworthy role in changing the Kansas City Chiefs into the team we have seen in previous seasons. 

After signing a one-year deal this offseason, Brown was set to be the number one wide receiver in an offense that won back-to-back Super Bowls. This reality would be halted for almost the entire regular season due to a clavicle injury Brown suffered in the preseason. 

In the two games back from injury, Brown has recorded 91 yards from nine catches. While these statistics may not be game-changing, Brown’s role has immensely improved the offense.

Since Hollywood’s return, quarterback Patrick Mahomes has averaged 290 yards per game, up from his previous average of 239 yards. Brown’s presence benefits not only Mahomes but also rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who has had consecutive season-high performances with Brown on the field. 

Although the Chiefs’ offense seemed stale and lackluster at times throughout the season, the team looks to be heading in a much better direction with this wideout back. Brown’s recovery has enabled other receivers, like Worthy, to take on more effective roles within the offense. 

“Both of those two can run well and I think both love to play the game and are good football players, so I think that that’ll help us,” Head Coach Andy Reid said. “It doesn’t hurt to have speed. We’ve functioned without the great speed down the field and done well, but if you have an opportunity to get somebody that you think is a good player, just not a speed guy, but a good football player, I think you probably need to take advantage of that.” 

Despite Kansas City holding consecutive Lombardi trophies, the offense has been lacking the big-time plays. This problem finally seems to be solved with the duo of Brown and Worthy. 

Given the addition of Marquise Brown, the offense can spread out to other veteran playmakers like DeAndre Hopkins and Travis Kelce. 

“Other guys have stepped up and started making plays and then you throw Hollywood in there, and it kind of sets everybody perfectly in their roles,” said Mahomes. “You saw that today (Week 17 against the Steelers). I don’t know the exact stats, but it seemed like we spread the ball around really well and guys made plays. When you have that many weapons out there, it’s hard for a defense to account for. Hollywood has made a huge impact in this offense.”