Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr. showcasing his deep-threat ability vs. Chiefs (VIDEO)

Early in training camp, some fans of the Jacksonville Jaguars got fidgety because wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. struggled to make plays. This wouldn't usually be a cause for concern if it weren't for the fact that he was the team's first-round pick in this year's draft. Fortunately, the former LSU Tiger turned the corner, showcasing his deep-threat skills in recent days. Against the Kansas City Chiefs, he proved that he can also make plays against NFL competition.

The Jags welcomed the Chiefs at the Bank in the preseason opener. They gave up three points on the Kansas City opening drive. Then, wide receiver Parker Washington had a 73-yard kickoff return. They're now tied 10-10 as of this writing.

Trevor Lawrence fared well when he took the field, going 3-of-4 for 42 yards and a touchdown pass to running back Travis Etienne. After a successful drive, he paved the way for backup C.J. Beathard. Right off the bat, the former Iowa Hawkeye looked for an open receiver and found Brian Thomas Jr. for a 41-yard gain.

Here's the video of Beathard connecting with the rookie wideout.

After letting Calvin Ridley walk in free agency, the Jaguars had a need at wide receiver. Heading into the draft, they showed interest in Rome Odunze and Malik Nabers, two of the top three prospects at the position. However, they would've needed to trade into the top 10 to have a shot at landing either one.

Instead, the front office stayed put. When they were on the clock at No. 17, they accepted a trade offer from the Minnesota Vikings to move back six spots in exchange for two fourth-round picks and a third-rounder.

At No. 23, the Jags selected Thomas, who wasn't as highly regarded as Nabers or Odunze but was still projected to go in the first round. The main reason? His ability to stretch the field. Back in the Scouting Combine, he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.33 seconds but he showed that was functional speed, averaging 17.6 yards per catch and hauling in 68 receptions for 1,177 yards with 17 touchdowns.

His 41-yard catch is just a small taste of what he can do. In the more recent days of training camp, he also reeled in a handful of deep completions.

The Jaguars must make good use of Brian Thomas Jr.'s deep-threat capability

Players' availability coming out of college is always variable, with some needing more time than others to hit their stride. In Brian Thomas Jr.'s case, his ability to stretch the field wasn't in question but rather if it would carry over to the NFL level. It's just a small sample but his play against the Kansas City Chiefs should be a reason for encouragement.

Now, Thomas has still a long way to go, and he could experience growing pains throughout his rookie season. That said, if he keeps making plays, his confidence should go up, and that should in turn translate into a productive first NFL season.

Whether the Jaguars win or lose against the Chiefs in the preseason opener, they should be pleased with Brian Thomas Jr.'s early promise.

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