2023 NFL Draft: A running back for every round for KC Chiefs
By Grant Tuttle
Today, we take a look at the talented running back class and a player that the Chiefs could take from that group in each round. Who’s available? We discuss.
With the draft season in full swing, it is time to start looking at position groups. Today, we start the first installment of a series about potential positions of need and the players within that position that the Kansas City Chiefs could take in each of the seven rounds of the draft. In today’s installation, we look at the ever-so-divisive position of running back.
The Chiefs have not been afraid to take a running back early. While the selection of Clyde Edwards-Helaire did not work out in the way that they had planned, the Chiefs are certainly not opposed to taking running backs at any level of the draft. Without further ado, let’s take a look at a running back that the Chiefs could draft in every round of this year’s draft, starting with round one.
Round 1: Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama
Let’s all be honest, if the Chiefs draft a running back in the first round, Kansas City may go up into flames in a full-on riot. After the selection of Clyde Edwards-Helaire has not panned out, it would bring back nightmares of old that none of us are ready to deal with. With all of that in mind, Jahmyr Gibbs is an intensely fun prospect.
Gibbs is not quite on the same level as Bijan Robinson. I would anticipate Robinson being gone by the time the Chiefs make their first selection. Gibbs would bring a different skill set than they currently have in the running back room. Gibbs is a tremendous home run threat; Both in his ability to be a receiver and his ability in the open field.
If Gibbs is utilized correctly, he would be what the Chiefs were hoping to get out of Clyde Edwards-Helaire. But again, no one wants the Chiefs to draft a first-round running back, except for maybe Jahmyr Gibbs, himself.
Round 2: Zach Charbonnet, UCLA
The second round is also probably a little earlier than anyone would like the Chiefs to take a running back. The last time the Chiefs selected a running back in the second round was when they drafted Donnell Bennett in 1994. At the very least a 2nd round running back would be historical. Zach Charbonnet might be a steal in the second round.
Charbonnet might be gone before the Chiefs select, but his physicality would be a welcomed addition to the red zone offense which always seems to struggle to gain the few inches that they need on the ground. It seems as though he bounces off would-be tacklers and gains the extra yards at the sticks. While he is not as flashy as Jahmyr Gibbs or Bijan Robinson, he is a very capable runner.