UDFA Buzz: Ex-Florida WR Elijah Badger to Join Chiefs

With the 2025 NFL Draft in the rear view, the Kansas City Chiefs have now shifted focus to the pool of undrafted free agents, looking to uncover overlooked talent that can make a difference. One name emerging from that group is former Florida wide receiver Elijah Badger, who is reportedly set to sign with the Chiefs, according to Justin Melo of The Draft Network via his X (formerly Twitter) account.

Badger, who began his college career at Arizona State, transferred to Florida for the 2024 season and immediately made his mark. Despite spending just one year with the Gators, he led the team in receiving yards, finishing the season with 803 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to step in and quickly become a top target shows both adaptability and high football IQ—traits that could prove valuable in Kansas City’s dynamic offense.

Before his time at Florida, Badger was a standout performer at Arizona State. Over the 2022 and 2023 seasons, he established himself as the Sun Devils’ top receiving option, amassing a combined 135 receptions for 1,579 yards and 10 touchdowns. He showed a consistent ability to produce, recording seven career 100-yard receiving games—three of which came during his lone season at Florida.

While he didn’t hear his name called during the draft, Badger now has a golden opportunity to compete for a roster spot on one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses. The Chiefs are known for developing receivers and making the most of unheralded talent, so Badger could be in the perfect environment to continue his development. If he builds chemistry with Patrick Mahomes and adjusts to the pro level, he has the potential to become one of this year’s undrafted surprises.