The Kansas City Chiefs are dealing with a number of key injuries this week, including to veteran running back Kareem Hunt. It seems the latest update isn't all that promising, with A to Z Sports Charles Goldman reporting Andy Reid's comments on the situation. The head coach simply offered, "He's going to be OK, we're having him sit out today," when asked about the bone bruise on Hunt's knee. It doesn't seem a strong indication that the playmaker is expecting to take the field, setting the stage for Brashard Smith.
Last week, the rookie was forced into action and had a nice impact in the passing game, catching five balls for 42 yards. However, the rushing attack was far less impressive, managing only 39 yards on 14 carries. Still, this injury appears to open the door for Smith to continue to carve out a role. While Isiah Pacheco is expected to start, the door remains open for any of the trio to take the heavier workload. Until the Chiefs make a move at the position, they continue to hold out hope that perhaps Smith will soon break out.
Chiefs Rookie Brashard Smith Set up for Key Role After Latest Kareem Hunt Injury News
The rookie is going to get the chance not only to repeat his impressive performance as a receiver, but perhaps improve as a rusher. Considering the current situation in Kansas City, it isn't an overstatement to say the rookie is one great game away from earning potential starting reps. Pacheco hasn't looked the same since returning from last year's injury, and even when healthy, Hunt is extremely limited.
Hunt's role with the Chiefs has been reduced to a short-yardage weapon and goalline option. While this is still a valued role, it is far from the star option the rusher was during his first stint with the Chiefs. Further opening the door for Smith to take advantage of the injury and carve out a larger role in an offense that is a starting back away from having an argument as the league's most lethal unit.
Now is the perfect moment for a breakout game for the rookie and a chance to build off what was accomplished in Week 7. Kansas City will be taking on the Washington Commanders, furthering the clear opportunity. The Commanders are ranked 21st in the league in run defense, giving up well over 100 yards each game. Last week, Cowboys running back Javonte Williams finished with 116 yards and a touchdown, averaging over 6 yards per carry.
It is hard to imagine a better setup to build off last week for the rookie and continue to carve out a role in the offense. Simply repeating last week's performance as a pass catcher and averaging more than 4.0 yards per carry would be enough to start a conversation. One that could find the rookie quickly, filling a surprise role for a team desperate to find more consistent answers in the backfield.