KC Chiefs roster: Darwin Thompson placed on COVID reserve list

As training camp gets underway this week, the K.C. Chiefs are going to be without running back Darwin Thompson for the time being while he sits on the team’s COVID-19/reserve list.

The Chiefs were without Thompson in practice along with tight end Nick Keizer (back), defensive end Malik Herring (knee), safety Armani Watts (foot), and offensive lineman Kyle Long (leg).

Thompson faces a critical year when it comes to making a dent at the NFL level in ’21. The third-year back has been unable to climb the Chiefs depth chart since entering the league, and this offseason, he’s clearly fighting for reps at No. 3 RB with Jerick McKinnon.

The Chiefs placed Darwin Thompson on the COVID reserve list.

The Chiefs have Clyde Edwards-Helaire at their lead back after drafting him with their first round pick last season. Former undrafted free agent Darrel Williams has passed over Thompson and others as the clear No. 2 back on the roster.

In the past, the Chiefs have been quick to add veteran backs when available such as Le’Veon Bell and LeSean McCoy instead of letting Thompson fill the void. McKinnon was brought in on a one-year deal as a well-rounded back who returned from major injury last year for the San Francisco 49ers.

Thompson was originally drafted in the sixth round in 2019 by general manager Brett Veach after starring for a single season at Utah State to the tune of nearly 1,400 yards from scrimmage and 16 touchdowns. Last season, Thompson had only 27 carries for 97 rushing yards and 1 touchdown for the Chiefs.