Grading the KC Chiefs offense prior to the 2021 NFL Draft
Running Back: B+
The Chiefs expended the inaugural first round selection of the Brett Veach era on a running back, to the surprise of all and the chagrin of some. Clyde Edwards-Helaire has dazzling quickness, the catalyst for numerous defenders’ broken ankles in the open field in college, but most wondered whether any running back was worth a first round selection. Rightfully so, most saw it as a luxury pick. Damien Williams had opted out and the Chiefs grabbed who seemed the most dynamic running back in the draft. Expectations were sky high.
Edwards-Helaire had a nice season, but the jury is still out as to whether his first-round selection was justified. Simply in terms of his ability, he’s arguably a top-10 running back but questions linger behind him on the roster.
In a surprising move, the Chiefs moved on from Super Bowl hero Damien Williams and instead opted to re-sign Darrell Williams. To be fair, Darrell Williams demonstrated his value in significant fashion in the 2020 playoffs. If he can stay healthy, he’s a quality second-string running back. Behind him is a big question mark. Darwin Thompson has shown flashes of game-breaking ability, but has also made his share of unfortunate mistakes. The Chiefs seem to add a player or two in Free Agency to the position each season, but none have stuck out.
The Chiefs have talent at the running back position, but it’s tough to say they’re a top-10 unit. Still, the top-end talent of Edwards-Helaire is enough to put this unit at an above average grade of “B+.”
Fullback: B
Longtime Chief Anthony Sherman made his way across the valley and into the sunset of retirement this offseason, to the surprise of most in Chiefs Kingdom. In reality, Sherman had seen his role in the offense diminish over the last couple seasons but his presence will be missed nonetheless.
Andy Reid has always used a fullback on some level in his offense, and in Sherman’s place steps veteran Michael Burton for the ’21 season. Burton had a solid grade of 62.7 according to Pro Football Focus in ’20, and while he won’t likely light up the stat sheet for the Chiefs, he’s as close to a lateral signing for a heavy contributor as you will get at the price.