KC Chiefs vs. 49ers: Key takeaways from the preseason opener

Jerick McKinnon carves out a role

Jerick Mckinnon was very efficient during his time on the field Saturday night. The 29-year-old running back made each and everyone of his touches count. During his stint in the second quarter, Mckinnon rushed for 19 yards on three carries and caught two passes for 21 yards.

Mckinnon can be a player that gives Edwards-Helaire a needed break, while still providing speed and a second burst, something that Darrell Williams lacks. Williams could be utilized as a short-yardage back when the Chiefs need to pick up a crucial third-and-one late in a game.

Mckinnon also made a couple of impressive tackles on special teams. Darwin Thompson is another player that Kansas City can use as a speedster, but he has shown to be inconsistent at times when his name is called.

More on the WR battle

The Chiefs are in need of someone to rise up over the rest and take the number two receiver role. Mecole Hardman, Demarcus Robinson, Byron Pringle, and Cornell Powell are all names to watch this preseason, but Saturday’s night preseason opener did not help Kansas City decipher who will step up into that role.

Hardman dropped his lone target of the night from Mahomes on a third-and-four, a catch that Hardman should have made. Pringle came up with two catches for 10 yards, including a five-yard touchdown from Henne. He also made a tough catch over the middle later in the second quarter.

Demarcus Robinson did not see one target. Powell came in late in the ball game, but did catch two passes for 20 yards on the game-winning drive. This will continue to be a storyline for the Chiefs during these next couple of weeks.