The Kansas City Chiefs had a strong offseason, adding players at positions of need on both offense and defense. Offensively, Kansas City added two running backs to their running back room: rookie Brshard Smith and veteran Elijah Mitchell. They also brought back veteran Karrem Hunt.
Last season, Hunt took over for Isiah Pacheco following his tibia/fibula injury. Though Hunt filled in admirably and even started a few games once Pacheco returned, it's clear his speed is deteriorating. This is why the Chiefs sought out Mitchell and Smith, two backs who have speed.
That said, if Mitchell and Smith both have good training camps and preseasons, Hunt could be out of a job by Week 1 of the 2025 season.
Kareem Hunt's Job May be in More Danger Than You Think
To many, the 29-year-old rusher is a lock to make the Chiefs roster in 2025. After all, he came in during the season last year and recorded 200 rushing attempts for 728 yards and seven touchdowns. While that means he only averaged 3.6 yards a carry last year, that was up from his 2023 average yards per carry of 3.0.
Still, Mitchell and Smith could pose a threat to his spot in training camp. Mitchell, the ex-49er, has dealt with injuries all four years of his career. However, when he has been on the field, he has proven to be a threat.
As a rookie in 2021, Mitchell recorded 207 carries for 963 yards and five touchdowns while averaging 4.7 yards per carry in 11 games. Then in 2022, Mitchell carried the ball 45 times for 279 yards and two touchdowns while averaging 6.2 yards per carry. It's important to note that 2022, Mitchell's second season, was Christian McCaffrey's first year in San Francisco.
Thus, it's reasonable to believe that if Mitchell stays healthy, he could surpass Hunt on the depth chart anyway.
On the other hand, Kansas City's front office seems high on Smith. Following his selection, Chiefs Director of Player Personnel/College Scouting Ryne Nutt told the media he believes the rookie could make an impact this year. So, even though claiming that Smith could beat out Hunt for a roster spot feels like a stretch, it could be possible based on his training camp and preseason performance.
Therefore, Hunt's roster spot may not be as guaranteed as it seems. Chiefs Kingdom will just have to wait and see how the running back room will shake out to start the 2025 season.