Kansas City Chiefs

Chiefs rookie TE O'Shaughnessy running with the starters

Published Jun. 12, 2015 3:17 p.m. ET

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James O'Shaughnessy has to make the jump from the FCS to the NFL.

The Chiefs aren't treated the former Illinois State tight end like a developmental prospect, though.

O'Shaughnessy has manned the No. 2 tight end spot throughout OTAs, according to ESPN. He's been running with the starters opposite Travis Kelce in two-tight sets, which the Chiefs often use.

"I guess you could say I'm surprised," he said. "Going against the No. 1 defense really gives you a clear idea of what you're going to face every Sunday."

To get that glimpse at the life of a starter, O'Shaughnessy had to recover from some initial awe. Running with the ones is a big jump for any fifth-round pick-- let alone one from Division I-AA.

O'Shaughnessy said it was "unbelievable" to break from the same huddle as Jamaal Charles and Alex Smith at first.

"But within a week I felt pretty comfortable that I can compete at this level," he said. "I would say I've had more ups than downs."

(h/t ESPN)

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