Kareem Hunt Reveals Doubts He Had Early Into Chiefs Reunion
By Jovan Alford
When the Kansas City Chiefs lost starting running back Isiah Pacheco two weeks into the 2024 season due to a fractured fibula, the back-to-back Super Bowl champs did not panic.
The Chiefs knew they had two solid running backs behind Pacheco in Samaje Perine and rookie Carson Steele. However, they still went out and brought back a familiar face to the organization, signing Kareem Hunt to the practice squad.
Bringing Hunt back to Kansas City seemed like a no-brainer, especially what he did last season with the Cleveland Browns. The veteran running back recorded 411 rushing yards and nine TDs on 135 carries in 2023.
The Chiefs didn’t rush Hunt into action as he didn’t go through training camp or preseason. But he eventually made his 2024 debut in Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers, recording 69 yards on 14 carries, and two receptions (three targets) for 16 yards.
After that performance in Week 4, the Chiefs threw the entire kitchen sink at Hunt the next week against the New Orleans Saints. Hunt stepped up to the challenge, recording 102 rushing yards and a touchdown on 27 carries.
Even though he thrived when his number was called, the veteran running back still had doubts after his 102-yard rushing performance in Week 5.
According to Jesse Newell of the Kansas City Star, Hunt said he “couldn’t get out of bed” the next day because his body was so sore. The veteran added, “I was like, ‘I don’t know how I’m gonna make it into work.”
Kareem Hunt struggled to get out of bed after a game a few weeks ago. He's endured a grueling season after being summoned "off the couch."
— Jesse Newell (@jessenewell) January 8, 2025
He says it's all worth it for the team that gave him a second chance — and a shot to rewrite his narrative in KC.https://t.co/XenbAohUxZ
The 29-year-old running back proved to himself that he still can be the feature back when given an opportunity. In the seven games Hunt started, he averaged 20.1 carries per game and rushed for 508 yards and five touchdowns.
Pacheco returned from injured reserve in Week 13 against the Las Vegas Raiders but didn’t take over as the starter until the following week against the Los Chargers.
Between Weeks 14-17, Hunt saw his production dip as he only averaged 9.5 carries per game. That being said, with the Chiefs about to embark on another Super Bowl run best believe Hunt will play a notable role on offense.
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