Chiefs rumors: Who will be Kansas City’s surprise cuts in 2017?
Charcandrick West, running back
I have a nagging suspicion that third-string running back Charcandrick West could find himself on the outside looking in come September. Despite the departures of Jamaal Charles, Knile Davis and Darrin Reaves, he’s one of the most replaceable skill position players Kansas City has on the offensive side of the football. West’s diminutive size and recent injury history make him an unlikely candidate for any workhorse or starter-spelling detail. A serviceable player who’s produced in this offense in years past should be safe through, right? I’d argue that his spot is in question now that they’ve made a relatively high investment into a young running back with starter potential in the most recent NFL Draft.
2017 draftee Kareem Hunt is likely to be the man in line behind incumbent starter Spencer Ware. He has the stature and resume of a full-time starter and immediately becomes a more attractive option as Ware’s backup. I suspect that roster churn and the desire for a sturdier change of pace option, who can add a dimension in third-down, pass-protection situations could be the reason he’s ultimately released. Thus far, team brass is heartened by Hunt’s apparent knowledge of NFL pass protection. West, by all accounts, has played good football in Kansas City and has far exceeded expectations for a low-profile signing in the spring of 2014.
The return on such a modest investment has been high with West and inexpensive players like these tend to find a way to stick around. West is the running back version of Albert Wilson—a receiver who has managed to retain his spot on the team despite nominal improvement over the years. That’s why West being cut early this fall will come as a surprise to most. His familiarity with the system and past production are reasons to keep him in place, but if the Chiefs can find a more durable player through waivers or camp cuts, I’m convinced they’ll do so now that Hunt provides some insurance as the RB2. [Reach]