5 Kansas City Chiefs roster battles fans need to watch this summer
By Jacob Milham
RB3
Primary participants: Carson Steele, Emani Bailey, Keaontay Ingram, Deneric Prince
Kansas City's top two running back options right now are clearly Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire. Jerick McKinnon had a resurgent couple of years with the Chiefs before becoming available in free agency. The 32-year-old's tenure in Kansas City seems to be over, especially with a rookie taking his jersey number.
Since McKinnon is not returning, Kansas City has several players vying to take his place, including Emani Bailey, Carson Steele, and Deneric Prince. Following the 2024 NFL Draft, general manager Brett Veach explicitly outlined the competition for the Chiefs' 53-man roster.
"I do think, though, we have some guys that all have ability and now it’s just a matter of those guys going out there and earning a position," Veach said. "From a talent perspective, as you mentioned with (Emani) Bailey and (Carson) Steele we brought in and then last year, (Deneric) Prince and Keaontay Ingram, all of those guys have talent and ability to play in this league. Now, it’s just a matter of who can put together a solid training camp and earn the position.”
Kansas City brought in several viable depth options, all with their advantages and disadvantages, and we will wait to see who grabs the job. It isn't an inspiringly competitive field, but it gives some running backs a real shot in Kansas City.
Veach focused on Ingram in his press availability, saying he "is a guy we like too." The USC alum hasn't produced much at the NFL level but still has elite athletic traits at 24 years old. The Chiefs brought him in late last year, so Ingram has the edge over players like Steele and Bailey.
Prince only played in two games last season after showing potential in camp and preseason action. Along with Bailey and Steele, he is another undrafted free agent option. All three have traits that could keep them in the organization, but they have to excel in camp. Regardless of the outcome, the RB3 group is anticipated to have some highlight-reel moments during OTAs, mandatory minicamp, and training camp.