The Kansas City Chiefs have been completely frustrated with veteran running back Elijah Mitchell, who has yet to make the team's active roster. Heading into the season, there was a level of hope that Mitchell might supplant veteran Kareem Hunt as a second option. Instead, not only has Hunt been the better option, but rookie Brashard Smith is now cementing himself into the third running back role. Making it clear that Mitchell has no future with the Chiefs and opening the door to a possible trade.
With this in mind, KC fans are paying attention to NFL Insider Jordan Schultz's report that New Orleans Saints rusher Kendre Miller tore his ACL in Sunday's loss to the Chicago Bears. Giving Mitchell a potential landing spot and an obvious trade partner for the Chiefs. Fans shouldn't expect anything of note in return, but simply a bit of cap space cleared and perhaps a 7th round pick or another depth piece in return. The only exception to this is if the Chiefs wanted to include Mitchell as part of a larger trade.
Elijah Mitchell Could Have Surprise New Landing Spot After Weekend Injury
Looking at the Saints' roster, it is fair to wonder if Kansas City might consider sending a draft pick in exchange for a veteran edge rusher. Both Carl Granderson and Cam Jordan appear to be potential options for the Chiefs and would be clear upgrades over the current edge rushers on the roster. Sending a valued draft pick and Mitchell to help replace the lost depth. It makes sense for both sides and gives Mitchell a chance to put his career back on track.
It is clear that if the Chiefs are going to make any changes to the current backfield, it will be bringing in a blockbuster addition. Otherwise, Isiah Pacheco, Hunt, and Smith will continue to handle the backfield responsibilities in Kansas City. Even with the limited production, there is no reason to put Mitchell back into the lineup based on limited upside.
New Orleans is the perfect low-pressure landing spot that doesn't put any unfair expectations on Mitchell while giving him the chance to rebuild value with the tanking Saints. With New Orleans likely to be in seller mode, the easiest way for this to happen is by Kansas City landing a defensive upgrade and giving Mitchell a new landing spot in the process.