The Kansas City Chiefs' first preseason game is in the books, with no shortage of stories emerging from the first game action fans have seen since January. Among the headlines is the management of Kansas City's backfield, with Emmett Johnson getting the bulk of the carries with 12 totes for 59 yards, averaging an impressive 4.9 yards per carry. Preseason defenses are typically anticipating the run and playing it safe, making this production even more exciting than it might appear at first glance.
However, this was far from the only headline the Chiefs made at the position, opting not to bring Emari Demecardo in until late in the second half. The career backup and pass-down specialist was signed to a one-year deal worth $1.2 million, suggesting that there was a very real chance he could make the roster and be put into a reserve role.
Demercado is still young at just 27 years old and has always been explosive. He averaged 7.0 yards per carry on 44 attempts in the 2025 season with the Arizona Cardinals and scored a touchdown on one of his 13 catches.
There was every reason for the Chiefs to consider utilizing this skill set and put the back into a contributing role in Andy Reid's offense. Not inserting Demercado until the fourth quarter, well behind not only Johnson but also Brashard Smith, was puzzling.
Chiefs' odd running back management in preseason debut raises eyebrows in KC
Entering the fourth quarter in the preseason is typically a sign that you're unlikely to make the roster or a fringe depth piece that is going to need an epic run to stick around. As harsh as this might seem, it is the reality of the business and part of the next month, as a large number of players will see their careers end, be forced to seek out a new landing spot, or hope to earn a practice squad role.
Demercado doesn't seem to fit any of the above, based on Kansas City seeking him out in free agency and having a clear question mark when it comes to depth at the position. Kenneth Walker III is going to get the bulk of the carries; this much is clear.
Where questions begin is looking at Saturday's management and attempting to decipher if it was simply a throwaway decision or if there is deeper meaning. It would still be a surprise not to see Demercado make the roster, as he is, without a doubt, the Chiefs' best pass-protecting running back and another explosive play waiting to happen.
As odd as it may be, fans shouldn't read too much into it just yet. Emari Demercado's larger resume and the initial signing suggest that it is still likely the playmaker will find his way onto Kansas City's final 53-man roster.
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