For weeks, the Kansas City Chiefs have been linked to multiple running backs. Isiah Pacheco hasn't been the same since his injury, and Kareem Hunt is far from efficient, so they clearly need more firepower in that regard.
Given his contract situation, New York Jets star Breece Hall was listed among the potential trade targets for this team. Nevertheless, an injury to his running mate, Braelon Allen, could complicate things, as reported by Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.
Jets Injuries Could Make Breece Hall Trade More Difficult
"Jets RB Braelon Allen, who was ruled out last night with a knee injury, suffered an MCL sprain that will likely land him on Injured Reserve, sources say. Allen is expected to receive additional opinions," Rapoport wrote on X.
As expected, Hall had operated as the Jets' lead back, with Allen as his backup. Now, New York will most likely have to lean even more heavily on the former second-round pick, especially with Justin Fields struggling to get much going in the passing game.
Hall Remains a Logical Trade Candidate For Kansas City
Still, Allen's injury might be nothing more than just a speed bump for the Chiefs. With the Jets falling to 0-4 and facing a tough schedule in the coming weeks, they will most definitely be sellers at the deadline. According to SNY Jets Insider Connor Hughes, Hall might still be at the top of the list of potential trade candidates:
"Breece Hall," Hughes responded when asked who could be moved before the trade deadline. "Like, I could see Breece Hall being a potential option dealt at the deadline. Breece Hall would be one."
As good as Hall is, the fact that the Jets haven't signed him to a contract extension yet shows that they might not be entirely sold on him. If that is the case, it would make much more sense to get something in return for his services while they still can.
What Are The Chiefs' Other Options?
Fortunately, there could be other options even if the Jets decide to hold onto their star running back. For starters, it looks like momentum is shifting in Brashard Smith's favor, and the rookie seventh-round pick could take more snaps moving forward from Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco.
If not, they could also turn their attention to other veterans on slumping teams, such as Alvin Kamara or De'Von Achane. Both the New Orleans Saints and Miami Dolphins will be picking high in next year's draft, and they would welcome some assets for their potentially rebuilding teams.
Hopefully, Smith will step up, and the Chiefs won't have to give up draft picks to solve their season-long running back woes. But at least, the team has options.