Chiefs position battles: Sorting the depth chart behind running back
By Matt Conner
What does the depth chart look like for the Chiefs at running back?
What a difference a year makes.
The Kansas City Chiefs entered last season with a committee approach to the offensive backfield, headed by the veteran tandem of LeSean McCoy and Damien Williams. One year later, the team has invested a first-round pick to upend all expectations at the position. The depth chart at running back is now ruled by one man: Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
Looking back, it’s somewhat amazing to see how to heavens have proverbially parted over Edwards-Helaire in order to gift him the single most exciting starting spot in the NFL for a running back.
First, the Chiefs used the most precious of assets—a first round selection in the draft—and used it on Edwards-Helaire. Note that the Chiefs hadn’t had a single first-round choice in the previous two drafts, thanks to trades for Patrick Mahomes and Frank Clark. Then they used that draft pick on a position where talent can typically be found in later rounds.
From there, the Chiefs allowed McCoy to leave in free agency and didn’t add any real competition in the form of free agency. DeAndre Washington was signed to compete for a scatback role, but the path remained clear for someone on top of the depth chart.
Finally, the only real competition for starter reps came from incumbent starter Damien Williams, whose postseason heroics have earned him considerable respect from teammates and coaches. Unfortunately, the tragic late-state cancer diagnosis received by Williams’ mother turned this year into a situation he wanted to sit out to spend more time at home. Once again, a way was made for Edwards-Helaire.
Beyond the LSU star, however, it’s difficult to discern just how the depth chart is going to play out for the upcoming season. Will the Chiefs keep three backs or four, including fullback Anthony Sherman? Is there an upset in the making? Let’s take a closer look at all the candidates and their chances to make the Chiefs.