Kevin Patra, writer at the NFL’s official website, recently came out with an article evaluating all 32 teams’ running back situations ahead of free agency and the draft. In the rundown, the Kansas City Chiefs were listed under the “acquire depth category”.
Here’s what Patra had to say:
"The Chiefs shuffled through backs before landing on the pairing of McKinnon and Edwards-Helaire in the postseason. CEH’s injury issues and lack of consistent pop have necessitated a committee backfield in K.C. With the Chiefs budgeting money elsewhere, I expect a similar approach in 2022. McKinnon fits Andy Reid‘s offense well as a pass-catcher who can slice through holes without hesitation. If no other team plunks down more cash for the injury-prone back, a return to Kansas City makes perfect sense for both sides. The Chiefs’ offense could use more ground-game consistency to help puncture defenses that sit back against Patrick Mahomes. But K.C. shouldn’t throw significant assets at the position after using a first-round pick on CEH."
The KC Chiefs need more at the running back position
The only running back currently under contract for next season is Clyde Edwards-Helaire as Jerick McKinnon, Derrick Gore, and Darrel Williams will all be free agents. Regardless, the Chiefs are going to need to bring in a few backs since they usually carry three or four on the active roster. However, it is also a need simply because Clyde Edwards-Helaire hasn’t shown that he can be a bell-cow back thus far.
The Chiefs also lacked explosive plays and speed at the running back position all season long until McKinnon came around for the playoff run. It should be a goal for the Chiefs to acquire more of that ability this offseason whether it be through the draft or free agency.
Today, however, we are going to take a look at a few free-agent veteran running backs that could bring that ability to the table and be a leader in the room while also not costing too much money.