Chiefs Turn to Rookie Brashard Smith to Revitalize Struggling Offense
The Kansas City Chiefs find themselves grappling with an unexpected start to the season, standing at 0-2 for the first time during the Patrick Mahomes era. With mounting pressure to rectify their offensive woes, the team is exploring new avenues to ignite their struggling running game.
Struggles in the Backfield
The Chiefs’ ground attack has been a significant concern, with Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt failing to make the expected impact. As the clock ticks, ESPN’s Dan Graziano highlighted that the franchise may soon pivot from these veterans, potentially giving seventh-round rookie Brashard Smith from SMU a chance to shine.
Graziano noted, “They believed Isiah Pacheco was running like his old self in camp and that he would be productive right out of the gate; he has not been.” The need for offensive productivity is pressing, and the Chiefs might soon look to Smith, who offers a different skill set—a more receiver-like profile capable of producing explosive plays in open space. If the coaching staff grows comfortable with Smith’s ability to manage the responsibilities of a running back, he could quickly become a pivotal player in their offensive scheme.
Potential Shift in the Roster
While it is likely that Pacheco and Hunt will remain on the roster—perhaps maintaining roles in short-yardage situations—the fluid nature of the running back position in the NFL means that changes can come swiftly. If Smith proves effective in his opportunities, the Chiefs might reconsider the commitment to their more expensive veterans, reshaping their backfield dynamic for the long term.
The Road Ahead
The Chiefs face a crucial juncture in their campaign. Historically, teams can rebound from an 0-2 start and still secure playoff berths, but the path is steep. Whoever is tasked with carrying the football must be prepared to shoulder the burden of revitalizing the team’s aspirations. As Kansas City navigates this challenging landscape, the urgency to find a solution has never been greater.
In the cutthroat world of the NFL, adaptability is key, and the Chiefs are poised to make the necessary adjustments to turn their season around.
