Kansas City Chiefs RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire could be in for a big 2020 season according to new projections from NFL analytics expert Cynthia Frelund. In a new article for NFL.com, Frelund predicts running back output for the 2020 rookie class. In order to get her results, Frelund used an analytic model which factors in contextualized play-calling data and the individual skill sets of each rookie running back.
Edwards-Helaire, of course, took the top spot. He’s projected to be the most productive rookie running back. Here’s a look at what Frelund had to say about the Chiefs’ rookie running back:
“Between Edwards-Helaire’s knack for earning yards after contact last season (SEE: an SEC-best 782 yards, per Pro Football Focus) and his top-level ability to break tackles in both the running (71, most in the SEC) and passing games (14, third-most of draft-eligible backs), he displays key attributes that project for success at the next level. Based on his past play-calling tendencies, Andy Reid’s game plan likely includes plenty of touches for both Damien Williams and Edwards-Helaire, who has a lot of upside as a pass catcher. The Chiefs’ personnel continuity from last season could also help pave a shorter path to Edwards-Helaire being a very productive contributor — the more experience the other offensive pieces have, the more focus and time can be spent on the rookie back’s role. My PPR model currently rates CEH as the No. 16 overall running back in fantasy football.“
Edwards-Helaire was picked as the most productive rookie running back ahead of Colts RB Jonathan Taylor, Lions RB D’Andre Swift, Bucs RB Ke’Shawn Vaughn, Ravens RB J.K. Dobbins, Rams RB Cam Akers and Bills RB Zack Moss. He was drafted ahead of each of those players too.
It sounds like the analytical model specifically liked Edwards-Helaire’s ability to break tackles as a rusher and a receiver. You also won’t find Chiefs fans complaining if he has a quick path to becoming a contributor in Kansas City. That’s what they’re expecting out of a running back who is drafted in the first round.
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