KC Chiefs: Sorting out the running back competition

On the Bubble?

It would seem right now as if the player most likely to be in trouble of sliding to the practice squad is Derrick Gore. With McKinnon back, Jones getting paid—albeit, at an affordable and team-friendly rate—and Veach’s vehement interest in the potential of his rookies, Gore would appear to be the most obvious option for the odd man out.

Conversely, if Jones’ true purpose in Kansas City is to take over the top spot on the depth chart, and McKinnon was retained with the intent of fighting for RB1, Edwards-Helaire could be getting dangerously close to being on the outs as well. In his case, however, should he stay healthy, he is likely the favorite RB1 option for the same reasons that Veach is excited about the new rookies. The talent team in Kansas City loved what they saw from CEH out of LSU, and now at full health for the first time in his young career, he is as poised as anyone to break out and showcase his best play.

The Chiefs will likely carry three RBs on game day, and in a room currently featuring seven players, only one would appear to be a certain lock. Veach and Reid would certainly like to see former first-round pick, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, meet his potential in ‘22 and be accompanied by the strongest two competitors to come out of camp. While the Chiefs RB room currently lies as the 30th overall in the eyes of PFF, the competition for both the starting role and supplemental spots could very possibly lead to a monster season from one individual in the K.C. backfield.