Despite their recent Super Bowl run, the Kansas City Chiefs have lingering issues at certain positions. One of the most uncertain spots heading into the 2025 season is their running back room, which may see a major shake-up before Week 1, with a longtime staple on the verge of departure.
Isiah Pacheco’s injury in Week 2 of the 2024 season exposed the vulnerability of Kansas City’s rushing attack. Pacheco missed three months recovering, prompting the front office to bring back a familiar face-Kareem Hunt.
The veteran back stepped up in Pacheco’s absence. While he didn’t post flashy stats, he delivered in key moments, earning himself a one-year, $1.5 million contract extension. However, some analysts believe Hunt’s time in Kansas City may soon be over.
Is Kareem Hunt’s role diminishing?
According to Bleacher Report analyst Kristopher Knox, Hunt is a strong candidate to be cut before the 2025 NFL season begins.
Knox noted that the Chiefs signed Elijah Mitchell in free agency and drafted SMU standout Brashard Smith.
Kansas City’s head of personnel, Ryne Nutt, expressed the coaching staff’s excitement about Smith’s playmaking ability. “When he has the ball in his hands, he can do some silly things in what he can set up,” Nutt told A to Z Sports.
Knox explained that if Pacheco returns to pre-injury form, Hunt may be the odd man out. “Releasing him would save Kansas City $632,353 in cap space,” he noted.
What’s next for Hunt?
While Hunt’s future with the Chiefs remains uncertain, he may need to start considering backup options. With free agency and the draft already completed, landing a new opportunity could be challenging.
As of now, the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans appear to be the only teams with a clear need for a running back.
With training camp just weeks away, Hunt will have a crucial chance to prove his value. But if the worst-case scenario unfolds, he still has options to continue his career elsewhere.
Read the full article here
