Running back options for KC Chiefs in every round

Could the Chiefs be looking for a new feature back? We discuss their options in each round in the second installment of our draft “fit” series.

The Kansas City Chiefs don’t seem to be a part of the “running backs don’t matter” group. After investing a first-round pick to draft Clyde Edwards-Helaire in 2020, they chose to invest some money at the position this offseason. While Jerick McKinnon and Darrel Williams remain free agents, the Chiefs signed power back Ronald Jones to a one-year deal.

The Chiefs are obviously not above drafting running backs, but this year seems like the draft may not be the place for the investment. If they were going to, it would likely mean the end of Edwards-Helaire. It is not likely, but not impossible.

Here are the fits for each round of the draft.

Likelihood of drafting: Extremely Low

No. No. Absolutely not. The Chiefs should not draft a running back in the first round. In fact, I am squarely on team “running backs don’t matter.” Additionally, the Chiefs should learn from past errors in taking running backs in the first.

In the worst-case scenario that they didn’t, they should absolutely take Breece Hall. Hall is a great ball carrier who can both make guys miss with quick cuts and run over smaller defenders. With very good vision, Hall could quickly become an asset to a run-heavy scheme. Although he is not an ideal passing target, he could eventually develop into an all-purpose back.

While Kansas City is not going to draft a running back, Hall would be an easy first choice if they were to make that poor decision.

Likelihood of drafting: Low

Again, it would be unwise for the Chiefs to take a running back this early in the draft, but it is not impossible. Although a lot of draft experts are not too keen on early-round running backs, the Chiefs proved that they still valued the position when they drafted Edwards-Helaire in 2020. If they go for a running back again, the pick very well could be a guy like James Cook.

Brother of Vikings running back Dalvin Cook, James Cook would make for a nice piece to any offense. With short steps in space, he can explode upfield. He has a nice size and generally falls forward when he is tackled. Cook can catch the ball out of the backfield and can make guys miss in space. Cook could one day be an feature back like his brother if given the right opportunity.

Likelihood of drafting: Low

Tyler Badie is a name that many in Chiefs Kingdom will recognize. While not typically a Brett Veach-style guy, they could make an exception for great talent in space. Badie is incredibly quick and is one of the most explosive running backs in the class. The Chiefs would use him as a chess piece that could line up all over the field. With some development, Badie could be a really good player in the NFL.

Likelihood of drafting: Low

Jerome Ford is a really great power back. Brett Veach likes guys with size and speed. While Ford’s straight-line speed is not overwhelming, his power is. He can move in tight spaces and drive defenders backward with ease. Ford is also an excellent pass blocker. If you like watching old hard-nosed football, Ford’s tape is certainly worth watching. The Chiefs may be interested in him as a Darrel Williams replacement.

Likelihood of drafting: Medium

If the Chiefs are going to take a running back, the fifth round and after is the place to do it. Zaquandre White just might be the most underrated back in this class. While he is certainly not a sure bet, he does have some serious talent that can’t be taught. White can make guys miss and stop and go quickly. In addition to this, White is a powerful runner who can catch well. While his vision needs a little work and he is not always as decisive as he should be, White would certainly be a nice fit in the Chiefs running back room.

Likelihood of drafting: Low

Abram Smith would make for a practice squad or special teamer that has a little bit of upside as a running back. Smith is an adequate pass blocker and can be powerful enough in short-yardage situations. While the Chiefs aren’t likely to target a guy at running back in the draft unless they can contribute on day one, Smith would make for an excellent developmental piece and special teamer for Dave Toub.

Likelihood of drafting: Medium

Kennedy Brooks is the type of running back who ends up as a number two running back on several NFL rosters in a half-decade. Brooks is a very smart player that a team can rely on to make good decisions and stay on the field play after play. He knows how to bait defenders into blockers before bouncing outside for good yardage. While there is nothing innately special about his abilities as an athlete, Brooks’ love for the game and willingness to work will land him a job in the NFL. It would certainly not be shocking if the Chiefs took someone like this in the seventh round.