KC Chiefs: Six biggest surprises from first preseason game

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Aug 14, 2021; Santa Clara, California, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon (1) smiles on the bench during the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /

Jerick McKinnon Is Making This Roster

Going into training camp we all knew that Clyde Edwards-Helaire was KC’s unquestioned top running back and that Darrel Williams was pretty much a lock to be one of the primary back ups at the position. Williams knows the playbook, has been reliable when called upon, and plays special teams. I believed the only real contest to be had was between Jerick McKinnon and Darwin Thompson for the third running back spot. After watching the game Saturday, I’m not sure there is much of a competition there.

Not only did Jerick McKinnon come in before Thompson, he clearly outplayed him. In fact, you could argue that McKinnon was the most impressive running back of the night for K.C.. He ended the night with 3 carries for 19 yards and 2 receptions for 21 yards. McKinnon is a guy who has seen lots of game action for both the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers, but injuries have kept him from ever having a huge role.

I’m not saying that Edwards-Helaire should be worried about losing the feature back designation any time soon, but I do think that McKinnon is going to get some playing time this season and that my initial thought of him just being competition for Thompson for RB3 was selling his skills short (and that’s coming from a Darwin Thompson fan). I’m now really excited to see McKinnon get snaps with Patrick Mahomes and the first string offense.

While it would be a nightmare for CEH fantasy owners, K.C. may end up using both Williams and McKinnon on a weekly basis to spell Edwards-Helaire and make sure he stays fresh. Next up, let’s talk about one more offensive player that really stood out on Saturday.

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