4 complementary running backs the Chiefs should check out after roster cuts

The deadline to cut down rosters has now passed. All NFL teams have their initial 53 players in place. However, that does not mean that teams still won't be looking into names that got cut. Whether you are a contender or a rebuilding team, more reinforcements will eventually be necessary throughout the course of a long season.

Looking at the Kansas City Chiefs, running back has been a topic of conversation throughout training camp and the preseason. You have Isiah Pacheco as the leader of the pack. Clyde Edwards-Helaire will be a secondary option in the room.

The only other name on the initial 53-man roster is Carson Steele, who entered camp as a rookie undrafted free agent. Steele wowed in preseason by running through tackles, using a stiff arm to dribble defenders into the dirt and even with his potential as a kick returner. Additionally, Steele can complete the role of a fullback, if necessary, which has largely been an Andy Reid staple.

With only three running backs on the roster, the Chiefs could look into adding more depth at that spot before Week 1. Here are four names that Kansas City may consider after NFL roster cuts.

Samaje Perine

The Denver Broncos were reportedly looking for takers in a possible trade of Samaje Perine. Ultimately, the former Bengal was cut by the Broncos on Tuesday. Could he remain in the AFC West by joining the Kansas City Chiefs? There are a few reasons as to why Perine may make sense for the Chiefs.

First off, Perine is adequate on passing downs. He has garnered at least 31 targets in each of the last three seasons, including over 50 in the last two years. His understanding of defenses as a route runner and as a pass protector should allow him to land a spot somewhere in the NFL. His dense build may also appeal to a team like the Chiefs. Perine may not pull off a lot of spectacular runs on the ground. Yet, he is going to put his head down and find extra hidden yards in between the tackles, if need be.

Zonovan Knight

Zonovan Knight was waived by the Lions on Tuesday. The former New York Jet was competing in a deep Detroit running back room. It may sound simple, but Knight's most exciting traits include contact balance and vision. Even as a runner that possesses a compact build, Knight can get skinny in traffic and accelerate through creases. You also see a runner who displays a solid understanding of cutback lanes or lateral awareness.

Knight's skill set doesn't exactly jump off the screen, but if called upon, Knight is a name that can be a steady presence if you need him to tote the rock in a pinch. Can Kansas City pry him away from Detroit if he clears waivers?

Michael Carter

Michael Carter is a name that has offered some hope dating back to his college games at North Carolina. The former Jet was released by the Cardinals on Tuesday.

Similar to Perine, there is quite a bit of intrigue in Carter for passing down usage. Carter already has 140 targets in three career seasons. There rarely appears to be any issues with his ball skills and ball handling at the catch point. Then as a runner, there is some noticeable quickness that Carter could add to the table as well.

A running back who has dealt with differing levels of pressure on rebuilding teams, Kansas City could give him a fresh opportunity on a contender.

Mike Boone

Mike Boone has bounced around the league on a few different NFL rosters. Formerly with the Vikings, Broncos, and Texans, Boone was in camp with the Panthers before being released. His quickness, smooth change of direction skills, and solid vision have allowed him to provide a spark when given an opportunity.

As a well-traveled runner, Boone already understands the role of a depth piece. He can instantly add positive yards if given any carries. Plus, Boone would increase the speed of the position along with the revamped wide receiver room.