The Kansas City Chiefs' running back room has been up for much discussion throughout the offseason, particularly considering the injury struggles that surrounded Isiah Pacheco's campaign. While Kareem Hunt had a great year, it's hard to argue that he should be the halfback of the future.
It's still an interesting situation with Pacheco, Hunt, Carson Steele, newly drafted Brashard Smith, and newly signed Elijah Mitchell.
No matter how you look at things, it appears that the organization isn't committed to Mitchell moving forward.
Chief Drafting RB Brashard Smith Could End Elijah Mitchell's KC Tenure Before it Begins
Anyone who watches Smith can see a dynamic back reminiscent of a young Jerick McKinnon. He has pass-catching chops beyond his years, and he's someone who could immediately provide home-run juice that the offense has desperately lacked.
Last season at SMU, Smith had 1,659 yards from scrimmage and 18 total touchdowns. He also averaged 5.7 yards per carry with the Mustangs.
Regardless, it's an interesting debate. Smith would be someone who could take over the three-down role for Pacheco and Hunt. Ultimately, his inexperience raises fair questions. Perhaps his pass-blocking ability isn't up to par, perhaps he isn't the between-the-tackles runner the organization hoped for, perhaps he's merely someone who will serve a depth role.
We'll see what happens moving forward, yet it feels unlikely that Mitchell will have much of a role. Smith serves the same purpose that he could, but he's unquestionably younger and has bigger upside. As a dual-threat back that could change the nature of the offense, Smith is the type of seventh-round pick who could remind fans why Pacheco became so popular in the first place.
In all likelihood, Smith won't play a big role. He should, though. He can add a dimension that this offense has lacked. Here's hoping the rookie running back delivers on the promise, and if he does, the Chiefs may have just found their next superstar.