Brashard Smith's rookie season with the Kansas City Chiefs was quiet, to say the least. Even though expectations weren't astronomical for the first-year running back, who was a seventh-round pick, Smith's sparse usage was frustrating for Chiefs fans to see, especially when the backfield had more than enough room for improvement.
Fortunately, Smith's outlook is already on the rise to begin the offseason. According to Chiefs Digest's Matt Derrick, Kansas City is parting ways with RBs coach Todd Pinkston.
Pinkston's dismissal isn't a surprise, based on the fact that in any meaningful game, it seemed that quarterback Patrick Mahomes was the most reliable runner on the roster. While some blame falls on general manager Brett Veach for not providing better options, Pinkston didn't get the needed results, forcing that the Chiefs to make a change.
Brashard Smith Benefits the Most from Todd Pinkston's Chiefs Exit
For Smith, this is great news, hopefully signaling that the next RBs coach will give the second-year playmaker a larger opportunity. While the Chiefs still need to add a star at the position, the door is open for Smith to develop into a specific role to help Mahomes and the Kansas City offense — especially if the team can hire a coach who can take advantage of his speed and hands.
The best possible use of Smith is not using him as a short-yardage weapon or an every-down back, but a change-of-pace, speedy receiver out of the backfield. After all, he has the tools for it after converting from wide receiver to running back in college. Part of the issue with head coach Andy Reid's offense in the 2025 season was its staleness and predictability.
For Smith, this meant taking a backseat to Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt, resulting in his seeing three or fewer carries in 14 of his first 16 games. With the Chiefs playing for nothing in Week 18, the coaching staff gave the rookie RB a chance to shine, resulting in 12 carries for 56 rushing yards, proving that he should've been given the ball more often earlier in the year.
What the next running backs coach needs to focus on is Smith's ability to get the ball in space out of the backfield. It allows the playmaker the best chance to utilize his speed and create big plays. If he can be developed into a Jerick McKinnon-like contributor, the Chiefs' offense will be much better for it.
With that said, Smith's improved outlook doesn't mean the Chiefs shouldn't attempt to find a star RB this offseason. Smith's potential has been improved with the coaching change, but he still has a lot to prove before he can be declared a starter. Instead, the new offensive coordinator and running backs coach must focus on rebuilding his confidence, giving Smith a chance to play in a role he is better suited for next season.