Sixth-round draft pick Darwin Thompson continued his strong preseason performance on Saturday.

Against the Steelers, Thompson notched 30 yards on four carries averaging 7.5 yards per touch. He also stood out again in pass protection, making a crucial block that took out a defender heading toward the QB. He even had the opportunity to return a kick, which was new for the preseason.

Chiefs HC Andy Reid was asked about Thompson’s performance following the game.

“He’s playing hard and aggressive football,” Reid said. “He didn’t get quite as many touches as maybe the last time, but when he had opportunities I thought he did a good job. He’s seeing things and he’s patient enough where he can bounce it still. But his vision is good.”

Making the most out of your touches when they are limited is crucial for young players. It’s clear that he’s further along than your average sixth-round rookie.

He’s earning the praise and notice of the coaching staff and his performances are certainly warranting more opportunities. Chiefs RB coach Deland McCullough spoke last week about what he’d seen from Thompson.

“Just the focus and intensity,” McCullough said. “He’s done some things as afar as in the beginning of camp where he has some things he was working on as far as detailing his work and effort and different things like that. Again, he went back to the lab. We worked on it, talked about it and he came out and executed at a high level.”

Now, for two consecutive weeks, Thompson has put the work in that has translated to on-field success. Reid elaborated on what he’s seen from Thompson so far during a conference call on Sunday.

“I’ll tell you what, he’s doing a nice job,” Reid said. “He’s able to see the blitz, which is a big thing for the young guys. He has good vision in the run game. Then, he has a pretty good understanding of the pass game. He’s really a focused kid. He’s kind of a no-nonsense (guy). He wants to do it right, is real focused, studies a lot. I like the way he’s made up in that way.”

Thompson is further along than a typical rookie when it comes to blitz pickups and having the vision to find a running lane. His work ethic is drawing effusive praise from not only the position coach but also the head coach. It’s beginning to feel like only a matter of time before Thompson is getting work with Patrick Mahomes and the first team on a regular basis.

He’s earned his keep through two preseason games, now it’s on him to continue and remain at the forefront of this running back group.