Craphonso Thorpe: The Kansas City Chiefs’ Rising Star of 2002
The 2002 season was an exciting one for the Kansas City Chiefs and their fans. Sitting at the top of the AFC West with a record of 8-8, the team was poised for a successful season ahead. And one of the standout players of that year was none other than rookie wide receiver, Craphonso Thorpe.
Thorpe, who was selected by the Chiefs in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft, made an immediate impact on the team. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 180 pounds, he possessed great speed and athleticism, making him a valuable asset to the Chiefs’ receiving corps.
But it was not just his physical abilities that caught the attention of his teammates and coaches. Thorpe also had a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed, which earned him the respect of his peers.
His performance on the field throughout the season also proved his worth. In his debut game against the Houston Texans, Thorpe had three receptions for 66 yards, including a 45-yard reception, and a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. This electrifying play earned him AFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.
Thorpe continued to impress throughout the season, finishing with 16 receptions for 254 yards and two touchdowns. But his most memorable play of the year came in Week 15 against the Denver Broncos, when he caught a 35-yard game-winning touchdown pass in the final seconds. This clutch performance solidified his place as a rising star for the Chiefs.
As his rookie season came to a close, Thorpe was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team by Pro Football Writers of America, solidifying his status as one of the most promising young players in the league.
To celebrate his remarkable year, Topps included Thorpe’s autographed card in their 2002 Finest set. This card, numbered 298, featured a close-up shot of Thorpe in his red Chiefs jersey, with his signature boldly displayed in blue ink. It quickly became a coveted item among both Chiefs and football card collectors.
Years later, Thorpe’s impact on the field may have been overshadowed by other players, but his contributions to the Chiefs’ 2002 season should not be forgotten. With his impressive speed, explosive plays, and fearless attitude, Craphonso Thorpe left a lasting impression on the Chiefs and their fans.
Today, his 2002 Topps Finest Autograph 298 card serves as a reminder of his brief but impactful stint with the Chiefs. And for those lucky enough to have it in their collection, it is a treasured piece of memorabilia from the promising career of one of the Kansas City Chiefs’ rising stars.