The Kansas City Chiefsspent the early part of the offseason revamping the offensive line, and understandably so-keeping Patrick Mahomes upright is job No. 1. But while all eyes have been on the trenches, the backfield has quietly become a growing concern.
The run game ranked 26th in the league last season, averaging just 101.2 yards per game (NFL.com). That’s a steep drop for an offense known for versatility and firepower. And it’s not just about stats-it’s about the energy, or lack thereof, in the running back room.
Isiah Pacheco, the emotional spark of the backfield, didn’t quite look like himself after battling through injury. Kareem Hunt still runs angry, but his ceiling isn’t what it once was. Both players are entering contract years in 2025, which raises a bigger question: what’s the plan for 2026 and beyond?
A Draft Day solution could bring life back to Kansas City’s run game
Ben Solak of The Ringer thinks the answer could come from this year’s draft. “Getting a rotational running back is more urgent to me,”he recently wrote.“RJ Harvey (UCF) plays like a Chiefs back-they could snag him on Day 2-and Cam Skattebo (Arizona State) would be great on Day 3.”
Both Harvey and Skattebo have the kind of profiles that fit Andy Reid’s offense. Harvey posted 1,577 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns last season with a compact, bruising style. Skattebo, who racked up over 1,700 yards from scrimmage, brings grit and balance-exactly what the Chiefs could use in short-yardage and red zone situations.
Adding a young back wouldn’t just fill a depth chart spot-it would inject energy and long-term value into a room that might be nearing the end of its current cycle. It’s a low-cost, high-upside move that smart contenders make before the problem becomes critical.
The Chiefs are always playing the long game. But if they want to keep their offense multi-dimensional and Mahomes from doing everything, it might be time to bet on youth-and soon.
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