Entering the preseason, one position group Kansas City Chiefs fans were keeping a close eye on was the running backs. Although many fans expected Isiah Pacheco to be the starter, how reps shook out after that was up in the air. Veteran Kareem Hunt was second on the depth chart, but because of his lack of speed, players like Elijah Mitchell or Brashard Smith had a chance to pass him.
Despite that, after two preseason games it no one has taken advantage, leaving Hunt as the RB2 heading into Week 1. That said, Mitchell has yet to show why he should be Kansas City's RB3 this year. As a result, the 27-year-old could end up being a surprise roster cut next week.
Chiefs RB Elijah Mitchell Could Already Be on His Way Out of Kansas City
Although Mitchell was brought to Kansas City because of his speed and explosiveness, there were concerns as to whether he would look the same coming off multiple injuries. So far, he has yet to show speed or explosiveness. In two preseason games, Mitchell has seven carries on ten snaps for 19 yards.
That's an average of 2.7 yards a carry, which is extremely low for a player like Mitchell even in the preseason. The last time the 27-year-old saw preseason snaps was as a rookie in 2021. Though he only played in one game, he recorded six carries for 24 yards, which is an average of four yards a carry.
In that limited action, Mitchell certainly showed more than he has for the Chiefs this preseason. Moreover, the veteran running back didn't make any noise in training camp. If he had put together a couple of good practices or had big plays during practice, there would be a bigger argument to keep him around.
However, since he didn't do either of those two things and has struggled in the preseason, Mitchell could be expendable. If the Chiefs cut the 27-year-old, it leaves Smith as the RB3. In spite of his speed and explosiveness, the rookie is still learning the running back position, so he likely won't be ready to meaningfully contribute at the start of the season.
Therefore, Kansas City could be monitoring the waiver wire next week on final cutdown day. There always seems to be one or two surprise players cut at each position, which the Chiefs may need to capitalize on. If they do make a move, Chiefs Kingdom will welcome the player with open arms.