Chiefs Starter Suddenly a Cut Candidate After Miserable Week 4
By Joe Summers
The Chiefs' Week 4 win over the Chargers on Sunday was dramatic for many reasons. Aside from the terrible news that Rashee Rice's season is likely done for the year, Kareem Hunt's return became a major storyline to watch.
Hunt looked excellent, notching 85 yards from scrimmage on 16 touches. However, his success came at the expense of fan-favorite, Carson Steele. The undrafted rookie fumbled on the first drive, his second in three weeks, then was promptly benched for the rest of the game.
With Clyde Edwards-Helaire set to return to practice this week, Kansas City suddenly has a crowded running back room. That could spell doom for Steele, especially if he can't be trusted to hold onto the ball.
Carson Steele Might Now Be Odd Man Out at Running Back
Carson Steele fumbled two or three times a year as a college prospect, but that's two in two games as a pro.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) September 29, 2024
Steele has become a beloved player in just a few short months. He looked excellent in Week 3 against the Falcons, notching 72 rushing yards on 17 carries. While he started in Week 4 once again, the backfield seemingly became Kareem Hunt's to lose following the unfortunate fumble.
This could just be a learning lesson for Steele. However, it's hard to argue that Hunt shouldn't be the guy moving forward. He's familiar with the system and helped secure the victory. Hunt has only fumbled the ball five times in his career and just once in the last four seasons. Ball security is treasured in Kansas City and Hunt has shown he can protect the football.
Kareem Hunt reached a peak speed of 15+ mph on 2 of his 14 rushes yesterday, per NGS.
— Sam McDowell (@SamMcDowell11) September 30, 2024
Last year in Cleveland, he reached 15+ mph on just 4 of his 135 rushes, a league-low among qualified RBs.
He told us last week a sports hernia injury affected his production in '23.
Once Edwards-Helaire is officially back, the question becomes whether Steele or Samaje Perine will lose their spot. Perine saw more work than Steele against the Chargers, though hecould have more trade value than the rookie.
It's possible that Andy Reid carries four active running backs, especially after Rice's injury, yet it seems that extra roster spot would be better used elsewhere.
The team's brass has a difficult decision ahead. Should they decide to cut Steele, he'll be a surefire practice squad candidate should he clear waivers.
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