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With do-it-all running back Dexter McCluster set to be a free agent, the Kansas City Chiefs made an interesting signing Sunday.
The Chiefs announced the signings of four players to reserve-future contracts including former New York Jets running back Joe McKnight. McKnight, a former fourth round selection out of Southern California, has a very similar skill set to McCluster and could act as a safety net barring the loss of McCluster to free agency.
Coming out of River Ridge Curtis Christian High School in Louisiana, McKnight was known as a sure thing at the college level. However, McKnight never lived up to potential for the Trojans.
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Still, McKnight showed flashes of talent and unique athleticism unparalleled by many in the college ranks. Thus prompting the Jets to select him in the fourth round of the 2010 draft.
While McCluster has proved to be an integral part of the Chiefs offense since coming out of Ole Miss, McKnight’s talents could be illuminated in an offensive scheme run by head coach Andy Reid, making a possible loss of McCluster not as devastating as it once appeared.
McCluster had 53 receptions for 511 yards and two touchdowns in 2013. McCluster accounted for 1.4 million against the cap last season and is expecting a pay raise this offseason.
Though McCluster is a way more viable option, the McKnight signing at least gives the Chiefs a project backup just in case McCluster decides to go for greener pastures.