Steve Breaston still struggles to find role with Chiefs after Dwayne Bowe injury

Even with Dwayne Bowe placed on the injured reserve, wide receiver Steve Breaston might be inactive once again for the Kansas City Chiefs this week against the Oakland Raiders.

Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel said in his press conference that Breaston needs to show a better understanding of the offensive game plan before he can get back in uniform. Crennel also said that other players at the position have demonstrated more in terms of being effective, especially on special teams.

Breaston hasn't played since the Chiefs' Nov. 18 contest against the Cincinnati Bengals. He has just seven receptions on 15 targets for 74 yards this season.

When he signed with Kansas City in 2011, Breaston was considered one of the top slot receivers in the league. He was a significant part of the passing game in his first year with the Chiefs, amassing 785 yards and two touchdowns on 61 grabs.

This year, Breaston has lost the third receiver/slot role to Dexter McCluster, who has made the transition from a change-of-pace running back to a wideout.