How does Clyde Edwards-Helaire fit the Chiefs offense?
In the NFL, Clyde Edwards-Helaire projects to be a starting running back that can be utilized anywhere across the formation. With his impressive vision, lateral agility, excellent contact balance, and burst, he projects best in a zone run blocking scheme. However, he has the explosiveness and toughness to be utilized in a gap run blocking scheme as well. His pass protection will need some development, but it shouldn’t be looked at as a weakness. Adding his route running and ability to align anywhere across the formation, CEH is a do-it-all running back that can start immediately.
Kansas City is a match made in heaven for Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Andy Reid has always done a phenomenal job of getting the most out of his running backs. Kansas City’s zone-blocking scheme would allow CEH to thrive in the run game, and Reid’s ability to maximize running backs abilities in the passing game could turn him into a star year one.
The Chiefs won the Super Bowl with minimal proven talent at the running back position. Edwards-Helaire would have a real shot of taking over the starting role right away or midway through the season. We all know Reid’s hesitancy to incorporate rookies into his offense.
Not only is the running back room lacking bodies beyond the 2020 season, but it lacks a running back that has the type of versatility that Clyde Edwards-Helaire possesses. When the Chiefs cut Kareem Hunt, the offense took a step back without another back that could fill that many roles. Edwards-Helaire brings a very similar playing style and skill set. If Kansas City decides to spend one of their day two picks on Edwards-Helaire, we could see an already dominant offense become even harder to defend.