Chiefs’ Running Game Woes and a Potential Draft Solution
The Kansas City Chiefs have been grappling with a persistent offensive challenge that has haunted them for several seasons – their inability to establish an effective running game. Despite the brilliant partnership of head coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who have creatively compensated for this weakness by implementing short, quick-hitting passes, opposing defenses have gradually adapted to this strategy. The team’s struggle to line up under center, generate respectable yards-per-carry averages, and force defensive respect for their ground game has significantly limited their offensive options. This limitation has particularly affected their ability to execute play-action passes effectively, which typically thrive on the foundation of a credible rushing threat. The issues appear to stem from both personnel limitations and a scheme that may have become predictable and in need of refreshing.
In light of these challenges, ESPN analyst Field Yates has proposed an interesting solution in his first NFL mock draft of the season published on December 10th. Yates predicts that Kansas City will address their most glaring offensive deficiency by selecting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, positioning him as the eventual successor to current starter Isiah Pacheco. This projection comes after a season where Chiefs’ running backs have averaged a mere 3.8 yards per carry, a statistic that clearly illustrates their ground game struggles. While Yates acknowledges some skepticism about Love’s availability at the Chiefs’ projected 14th pick, he also notes the general reluctance of NFL teams to invest first-round selections in running backs when other premium positions might offer better value. This creates a potential opportunity for Kansas City to acquire a game-changing talent who could revitalize their rushing attack.
Love’s credentials make him an intriguing prospect for the Chiefs. His junior season at Notre Dame showcased impressive production, with nearly 1,400 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns – numbers that speak to his effectiveness as a ball carrier. However, what makes Love particularly appealing for Andy Reid’s offensive system is his versatility and explosive playmaking ability. Yates highlights Love’s extraordinary combination of explosiveness, agility, and balance as a runner, noting his remarkable ability to elude defenders. This elusiveness is quantified by an impressive statistic: 60 forced missed tackles on just 199 carries during his final collegiate season. Such an ability to create something out of nothing could prove invaluable for a Chiefs offense that has often relied too heavily on Mahomes’ improvisational skills.
Beyond his capabilities as a pure runner, Love brings another dimension that could significantly enhance the Chiefs’ offensive arsenal – his prowess as a receiver out of the backfield. The Heisman Trophy finalist demonstrated considerable skill in the passing game, averaging 10.4 yards per reception and recording three receiving touchdowns during his final season. This dual-threat capability aligns perfectly with the evolving nature of the NFL running back position, where versatility and pass-catching ability are increasingly valued. For Kansas City, a team that has masterfully utilized players in multiple roles under Reid’s creative play-calling, Love’s receiving skills could add another layer of unpredictability to their offensive scheme and potentially create favorable matchups against linebackers in coverage.
The timing of this potential draft selection comes at a critical juncture for the Chiefs, who have experienced uncharacteristic offensive struggles throughout the current season. After a recent loss to the Houston Texans – their seventh defeat of the campaign – questions about their playoff viability have intensified. Tight end Travis Kelce has been candid about the team’s postseason prospects, while Coach Reid has publicly addressed Mahomes’ performance amid these challenges. The addition of a dynamic playmaker like Love could provide an immediate offensive spark while also representing a strategic long-term investment in balancing their attack, potentially extending the championship window for their core stars.
While drafting Love would represent just one piece of the puzzle in addressing Kansas City’s offensive inconsistencies, it symbolizes a recognition that even the most innovative passing attacks require the complementary threat of a credible ground game. The NFL has always been a league of adjustments and counter-adjustments, and the Chiefs’ recent offensive limitations suggest that defenses have found ways to contain their previously unstoppable aerial assault. By potentially investing premium draft capital in a running back with Love’s skill set, Reid and general manager Brett Veach would be acknowledging that evolution is necessary for sustained success. A revitalized rushing attack could not only improve their offensive efficiency but also help protect Mahomes by keeping defenses honest and reducing the pressure on him to consistently produce magic when traditional offensive approaches falter.
