3 Players Who Have Gone Missing at Chiefs Training Camp

1. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Running Back

There was a time when Clyde Edwards-Helaire appeared set to be a focal point of the Kansas City offense. No one would ever be the lead dog as long as Patrick Mahomes could suit up but they needed a running back who could help take their ground game to the next level.

Edwards-Helaire was a perfect fit after spending his time in the NCAA with the LSU Tigers. Working alongside Joe Burrow, Tee Higgins, and Justin Jefferson meant he understood how to operate in a pass-first offense. He was also capable of moving the chains on his own, even if he wasn't the primary option.

As a rookie, he was solid with 803 yards on the ground and 1,100 total yards from scrimmage. He had five total touchdowns as well while averaging 4.4 yards per attempt and 8.3 per reception.

Since then, his production has gone in the opposite direction. Edwards-Helaire had 517 yards on the ground in 2021, 302 in 2022, and 223 last season. He lost his starting job to Isiah Pachecho, a seventh-round pick in 2022. The Chiefs decided not to pick up the fifth-year option in his deal, since he wasn't the starter, and allowed him to hit free agency.

With no suitors, he returned to Kansas City on a one-year deal. However, the news surrounding him has been rather quiet. Instead, Deneric Prince (an undrafted free agent from Tulsa in 2023) has generated buzz as a dark horse to take the RB2 spot behind Pacheco. They're also enjoying what Carson Steele brings to the table as a versatile option out of the backfield.

Edwards-Helaire has been open about a difficult health battle with PTSD. The organization is committed to getting him the help he needs and ensuring he has the proper support. In the meantime, the backfield situation is murky.

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