The Kansas City Chiefs made a strategic move to bolster their running back corps in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting SMU standout Brashard Smith with the 228th overall pick in the seventh round. The pick, acquired in a trade with the New England Patriots, adds a dynamic playmaker to the Chiefs’ offense, offering both speed and versatility.
Smith arrives in Kansas City following a strong senior season at SMU, where he rushed for 1,332 yards and 14 touchdowns, while also demonstrating his ability as a pass-catcher with 327 receiving yards and four scores. His dual-threat capabilities could prove valuable for the Chiefs, who experienced depth concerns at the position last season after starting running back Isiah Pacheco suffered a fractured fibula in Week 2. That injury forced the team to scramble for solutions, including bringing back veteran Kareem Hunt.
To make room for Smith, the Chiefs opted to release veteran running back Keaontay Ingram, who had primarily stayed on the practice squad and logged just one game appearance in 2024 without registering a stat. The team also announced they were parting ways with former San Jose State receiver Justin Lockhart, agreeing to an injury settlement. These moves indicate Kansas City’s commitment to reshaping its depth chart ahead of the upcoming season.
A trust and confidence move
While Smith may not receive immediate playing time, he has the skill set to carve out a role as the season unfolds. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver aligns with the Chiefs’ offensive philosophy and could make him an asset in specific packages. With Pacheco expected to return, Smith will have an opportunity to learn from veteran players while proving himself when called upon.
Kansas City has long been known for its ability to develop late-round talent into valuable contributors, and Smith will hope to follow that trend. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on how he fits into head coach Andy Reid’s offense, and whether he can seize the opportunity to earn meaningful snaps.
Smith’s arrival adds depth to an already competitive position group, giving the Chiefs another tool to utilize in their quest for another successful season. If he can translate his collegiate success to the professional level, Kansas City may have found a valuable playmaker in the later rounds of the draft.
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