Sports blog information from USA TODAY.
Check out all of the top highlights from the #Chiefs’ rainy Monday practice session:
The Kansas City Chiefs scaled back the intensity of their Monday morning practice session due to rain that made the playing surface slick on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.
Nonetheless, the team managed to put together some impressive highlights from their soggy workouts, which are sure to excite fans from across Chiefs Kingdom.
Check out some of Monday’s top plays below:
Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon shared his thoughts on the devaluation of his position, which is making headlines around the NFL. | from: @EdEastonJr
The offseason talk around the NFL has centered mainly on the contract expectations of running backs in recent weeks. The position has been severely devalued in the modern pass-first league, and many of the league’s top rushers were placed on franchise tags ahead of the 2023 season.
Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon is a veteran who has seen the change in how offenses utilize players at his position. He spoke with reporters after Tuesday’s practice to share his thoughts on the lack of financial accommodations for running backs.
“[It is] very tough, you know, the running back position… there is a lot of demand on that position,” He explained. “As far as you know, running the ball in between tackles… taking that beating. Nowadays, [you are] basically turning to a receiver out the backfield, pass blocking on protections. So, definitely in that aspect the position [has], along the way, been devalued because it’s such a passing league.
“When you step back and look at it, it’s definitely something that should be more valued than what it is. And as far as the contract situations, I guess it’s kind of based on the market. So it’s kind of hard to really say how that happens. Every position every year fluctuates. You [have] got a guy who gets paid this much he sets the market, everybody kind of gets the contract [based] off of that guy.”
Saquon Barkley of the New York Giants recently ended his holdout after agreeing to the one-year deal following his franchise tag designation.
“This year, it’s been kind of difficult with top running backs on the franchise tag,” McKinnon continued. “So, when the top guys get the franchise tag, you know, that’s the ceiling. So everybody else falls under that. As far as the guys getting franchise tagged, I feel them on that side, you know, they put in the work to pay their dues. I they are looking for a payday long term, guarantees, which is one of those things that, you know, it’s kind of bittersweet about the game and the business part, when it comes down to that.”
For his part, McKinnon decided to return to Kansas City on a one-year deal worth just over $1 million after testing the market as a free agent in the offseason. His return was a welcome development for the Chiefs and their fans after his contributions proved crucial to the team’s playoff run last season that culminated in a Super Bowl LVII victory back in February.
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In our latest weekly poll, we ask fans if #Chiefs RBs Jerick McKinnon and Isiah Pacheco are underrated heading into the 2023 NFL season.
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The Kansas City Chiefs are known for their high-octane offense fueled by the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, but is their running back room underappreciated heading into 2023?
In ESPN’s recent top-10 rankings, which polls NFL executives, coaches and players, Chiefs RBs Jerick McKinnon and Isiah Pacheco didn’t even receive a single vote. The cornerback position was similarly left out of ESPNs top-10 rankings, but they at least received a few votes. For the running back room, there were no honorable mentions for the reigning Super Bowl champions.
Pacheco finished the 2022 NFL season ranked 25th in rushing yards (830) despite starting only 11 regular season games. He had the second-most rushing scores among rookies behind only Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III. If you include Pacheco’s playoff yardage, he exceeded the 1,000-yard mark last season, all in addition to playing the starting kick returner role.
As for McKinnon, his role is equally nuanced. He played an outsized role in the pass protection schemes last season, often staying in the backfield to pass protect for Patrick Mahomes. He finished the season with over 800 yards from scrimmage and 10 total touchdowns. His contributions in the passing game were unmatched at the running back position in 2022.
Our friends at KC Sports Network pointed out earlier this offseason, McKinnon had more receiving touchdowns than some of the league’s best wide receivers. That group includes Vikings WR Justin Jefferson and former Chiefs WR Tyreek Hill.
Fun Fact: #Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon had more receiving TDs in 2022 than the following wide receivers:
– Justin Jefferson (8 TD)
– Jaylen Waddle (8 TD)
– Tyreek Hill (7 TD)
– DJ Moore (7 TD)
– Tee Higgins (7 TD)
– Mike Evans (6 TD)
– Cooper Kupp (6 TD)
– DK Metcalf (6 TD) pic.twitter.com/YtZLAr8IB4— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) June 28, 2023
The running game will probably never be the focus for the Chiefs during the Patrick Mahomes era, but it sure feels like these two are worthy of more recognition heading into the new year. What do you think, Chiefs Kingdom? Vote in the poll atop the page and let us know your thoughts on Facebook and Twitter.
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We are ranking the running backs the Philadelphia Eagles will face on their 2023 schedule by PFF grade
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The Eagles have a loaded 2023 schedule and face 7+ playoff teams as they work towards making the postseason every season in each season, Nick Sirianni has been head coach.
Philadelphia will face some high-powered offenses with MVP candidates at quarterback and elite talent at the running back position.
The Birds will face Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Tony Pollard, Cam Akers, Raheem Mostert, and Isiah Pacheco.
With training camp fast approaching, we’re ranking the running backs on the schedule by PFF grades.
The running backs are listed below in order of their PFF grades with their finish among all players at the position listed.
Jets running back Breece Hall didn’t make the list due to a lack of carries after suffering a torn ACL against the Broncos last October.
In seven games last season, which includes four-straight victories and four wins on the road, Hall logged 681 yards (463 rushing on 80 carries, 218 yards on 19 receptions) and 5 touchdowns on those 99 touches.
After a late return in free agency once again, #Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon said that Kansas City was always where he wanted to be.
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Kansas City Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon signed his third consecutive one-year deal to return to the team back in May.
The free agent market is tough for running backs, with several talented players still remaining available. McKinnon had to wait longer than expected for his new deal, leading to speculation regarding his future in Kansas City.
The truth is that the 31-year-old running back was weighing other options after an impressive 2022 campaign, where he made NFL history by becoming the first running back in the Super Bowl era (since 1970) to record a touchdown reception in six consecutive games.
“There were a couple of other teams,” McKinnon told reporters at offseason workouts. “Really, only one other team and another one was (on the fence).”
Ultimately, McKinnon chose to return to familiar waters, instead of venturing out to a new club. He’s grown attached to the team after they gave him a new start back in 2021.
“This was always somewhere I wanted to be,” McKinnon continued. “I said that last year. I felt the same way this year. So the whole free agency, trying to get things done and get on the same page is always a process. But fortunately, I was able to come back, and this is where my heart is. I’m excited to be here again.”
Entering his 10th NFL season, McKinnon appreciated the care with which the team handles his well-being. He hasn’t yet participated in the offseason workout program as he recovers from an extended 20-game season that resulted in Super Bowl LVII win.
“Last year was a long year. I was fortunate to make it through the whole season, every game,” McKinnon said. “But that’ll definitely take a toll on you. Going into Year 10, (I’m an) older guy. The good thing about being here, the coaching staff, the medical staff, everybody is on the same page. Coming up with a plan to make sure that I’m good to go for the season.”
McKinnon expects to make his return to the field in some capacity at training camp this July.
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In our weekly poll, we ask #Chiefs fans whether they think Kansas City will have a 1,000-yard rusher in 2023:
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The Kansas City Chiefs have never had a 1,000-yard rusher during the Patrick Mahomes era. Could 2023 be the season where that changes?
The Chiefs’ franchise has a storied history of developing running backs, but in recent years it has been all about the passing game in Kansas City. The last time the Chiefs offense had a 1,000-yard rusher was Kareem Hunt’s rookie season in 2017, where he led all running backs with over 1,300 rushing yards that season.
Looking at the 90-man offseason roster in Kansas City, not a single running back on the roster has recorded over 1,000 rushing yards in a single season in the NFL career. Isiah Pacheco’s 830 rushing yards on 170 attempts last season are the closest, with Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s 803 yards on 181 attempts in 2020 close behind. A few have produced a season with over 1,000 yards from scrimmage, but none solely produced a 1,000-yard season on the ground.
Edwards-Helaire and Jerick McKinnon haven’t reached 1,000 rushing yards in a single season since their college days at LSU and Georgia Southern, respectively.
It’s tough to imagine a scenario in which the Chiefs’ offense produces a 1,000-yard rusher this season. With the team expecting Pacheco sidelined into training camp, it means they could be looking at a committee approach in the backfield to start the season. It’s possible that we see a four-man room that features each of Pacheco, McKinnon, Edwards-Helaire and rookie Deneric Prince at various junctures of the season.
So what do you think, Chiefs Kingdom? Will there be a 1,000-yard rusher in Kansas City in 2023? Let us know your thoughts about who that could be on Facebook and Twitter.
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#Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon discussed his mentorship of Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who has shown maturity and resilience the past two years. | from @EdEastonJr
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The Kansas City Chiefs running back room has earned much more respect in recent seasons, as most of the attention is usually focused on the passing game.
Jerick McKinnon had a resurgent season last year with the Chiefs, becoming Patrick Mahomes’ preferred passing option in the red zone. McKinnon also gained more acclaim for his voice in the locker room as a team captain, taking ownership of mentoring younger players like Clyde Edwards-Helaire and Isiah Pacheco.
McKinnon spoke to reporters on Wednesday about his mentorship, sharing veteran experience in the running backs room.
“It’s been fun because, you know, the thing about it is when you’re young, you want to make it to the NFL,” McKinnon said. “And then you want to do great things, and obviously, things of that nature. But everybody has their own course and their own little story and what they go through. And I think that’s what makes everybody’s journey that special. So, you know, anyway that I can help out, relay to those guys that I might have been through to help them get through to that next level and just keep playing a high level, you know, I’m always happy to do so.”
The former first-round draft pick Edwards-Helaire hasn’t had storybook success during his time in the league. His tenure with the Chiefs has been marred by injury and that culminated in the team’s decision to pick up his fifth-year option.
McKinnon praised the young running back for his resilience to battle through adversity and maintain a positive attitude.
“Of course, he’s definitely a locker room guy,” said McKinnon.“Go into the locker room and ask anybody on the team. Even though he’s a younger guy, his characteristics are a lot— he’s definitely older than his age — maturity level and things of that nature. So, you know, everything that he’s gone through, I think he’s handled it pretty well. Just to be here and keep grinding and keep stepping forward speaks on his character, speaks on his athleticism, and then just how much he can hold as a person, that could be a lot on a young guy.”
The growth of the Chiefs’ running back room over the last few seasons has helped evolve the offense. The veteran leadership of McKinnon has helped mold the group into what it is today with each player focused on the ultimate team goal.
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#Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon was stunned by UDFA rookie RB Deneric Prince’s size and speed.
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Kansas City Chiefs’ undrafted free agent RB Deneric Prince has been turning heads this offseason. He’s caught the attention of the headman in Kansas City, but he also caught the attention of the team’s most veteran running back.
While Jerick McKinnon hasn’t really spent much time on the field with Prince, his reaction to the tape that he saw from practice early this offseason was priceless.
“Yeah, he’s nice,” McKinnon told reporters on Wednesday. “I’ve seen him on film. First of all, to be that big and that athletic is definitely rare. I think the first thing, I texted the guys like, ‘Who is No. 34? He’s big as hell and he’s moving really fast.’
“But he’s been definitely a standout, for sure. I know the coaches love him. I can’t wait to see what he does in camp and then for me to physically be out there and you know give my veteran presence and watch him go from there.”
It’s exciting to see McKinnon come away so impressed by Prince’s blend of size and speed. Remember, this is a guy who entered the NFL backing up Adrian Peterson in Minnesota. He also just watched Isiah Pacheco do his thing as a rookie a season ago.
To this point, the Chiefs haven’t been able to hold any padded practices, so most of what they’re working on is the passing game. Prince has managed to stand apart, despite not having the opportunity to really play his position yet.
“It’ll be fun to watch him learn and take that next challenge,” McKinnon concluded.
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#Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon, LG Joe Thuney and WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling spoke about the upcoming Super Bowl LVII ring ceremony on Thursday night.
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The Kansas City Chiefs will host their Super Bowl LVII ring ceremony on Thursday, June 15, just before players leave for a long break between mandatory minicamp and training camp.
Speaking to reporters during Wednesday’s media availability, several Chiefs veterans expressed excitement for the upcoming event.
“We get our rings tomorrow,” Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon said. “I’m excited about that. It’s going to be good.”
The team’s ring ceremony for Super Bowl LIV took place closer to the regular season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They’ll celebrate their Super Bowl LVII victory a little earlier this offseason, giving several former team members a chance to partake in the ceremony.
“I can’t wait to celebrate with the guys,” Chiefs LG Joe Thuney said. “Like I said, such a special group this past season. It’ll be good to see some of the guys. I appreciate the Chiefs organization for putting it together, and (I’m) excited to partake in it.”
Many Chiefs players haven’t yet seen the design for the ring, though they were fitted for their rings shortly after Super Bowl LVII.
“I haven’t seen it yet, man,” Chiefs WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling said. “So, I guess we’ll find out (tomorrow night).”
Emotions are sure to be high for several players who became champions for the first time. Jerick McKinnon says there won’t be any tears shed during the ceremony.
“Well, I cried at the Super Bowl,” McKinnon said. “I ain’t going to cry tomorrow. I’ll probably pour (myself) a nice little shot of tequila with the guys, and have a little shot with the guys. It’ll be smooth.”
As one of the heroes of Super Bowl LVII, McKinnon reiterated that trading a touchdown for a ring was the right move to make.
“Great trade, great trade,” McKinnon said. “I wouldn’t change it for nothing.”
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Our @LazarczykLogan thinks that #Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco is due to see a bigger role in the passing game in 2023.
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Kansas City Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco is coming off an impressive rookie season, totaling 830 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 170 attempts.
The 23-year-old running back is also coming off a season where he played through multiple injuries. Pacheco played through a broken hand and torn labrum for a portion of the 2022 season. This offseason, Pacheco underwent procedures for both injuries sustained during last season.
We have yet to see Pacheco participate in offseason programs, but the expectation is that he will be available for training camp.
“He’s making progress,” Chiefs HC Andy Reid said. “We’ll just see how he does with it.”
While it is obvious that Pacheco should continue to see plenty of work in 2023, there is one area of his game that should see an uptick. That is pass-catching duties and third-down snaps.
Entering the 2023 NFL draft, the expectation was that the Chiefs would select a running back in the middle rounds of the draft. Especially the fact that Pacheco was a seventh-round pick, and running backs, much less late-round backs, have little security in the NFL nowadays. Not only did the Chiefs not draft a running back, but they also declined Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s fifth-year option. Kansas City did re-sign Jerick McKinnon, but the lack of additions to the running back room shows how much confidence the Chiefs have in Pacheco.
McKinnon has been the primary third-down running back for the Chiefs, but it’s not like Pacheco is incapable of catching passes out of the backfield. He simply wasn’t given the opportunity to do that role much as a rookie. In 17 regular season games, Pacheco caught 13-of-14 targets and dropped zero passes. In the postseason, Pacheco caught six-of-seven targets, including five catches for 59 yards in the AFC Championship Game.
These numbers show that the second-year running back is more than capable of catching passes out of the backfield. Another key factor in getting more third-down snaps as a running back is pass protection, which is something Pacheco struggled with early on last season. Pacheco’s pass protection improved during the season, and he was at his best during the end of the regular season and postseason.
According to PFF, in the final five combined regular season and postseason games, Pacheco received pass-blocking grades of 73.4, 78.3, 73.4, 76.7, and 73.4. With another offseason under his belt, he should have a greater understanding for the blocking scheme and responsibilities required to improve in pass protection.
Pacheco’s 2022 receiving work may look lackluster looking in the box score, but the only thing he was lacking was a consistent opportunity. There were no major changes made to the Chiefs’ running back room from last season. With Edwards-Helaire’s spot on the roster not guaranteed and McKinnon being 31 years old, expect Pacheco to have more snaps on third down this season.
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