The Kansas City Chiefs have officially parted ways with running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, their first-round pick from the 2020 NFL Draft. The surprising move was announced on Tuesday, marking the end of a tenure that began with high expectations but failed to fully materialize.
Edwards-Helaire entered the league as a promising star out of LSU, fresh off a national championship win and a standout college career. Selected 32nd overall by the Chiefs, he was envisioned as a dynamic addition to Kansas City’s high-powered offense, led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Despite flashes of brilliance, injuries and inconsistent performance hindered his ability to solidify a key role in the team’s backfield.
In his rookie season, Edwards-Helaire showed promise, rushing for 803 yards and adding another 297 receiving yards across 13 games. However, subsequent seasons were marred by injuries and a reduced workload. By the 2023 season, he had largely fallen out of favor, with Isiah Pacheco and Jerick McKinnon emerging as the Chiefs’ preferred options.
“Clyde is a talented player, and we appreciate everything he’s done for this organization,” said Chiefs head coach Andy Reid in a press statement. “Unfortunately, football is a tough business, and these decisions are never easy.”
Edwards-Helaire’s release comes at a critical juncture for the Chiefs as they look to strengthen their roster heading into the final weeks of the regular season. The team currently holds a commanding lead in the AFC West, but bolstering depth and addressing areas of concern remain priorities for the defending Super Bowl champions.
What’s Next for Edwards-Helaire?
With his release, Edwards-Helaire becomes a free agent, and several teams in need of running back depth could express interest. His skill set as a dual-threat back—capable of making plays in both the running and passing game—could appeal to franchises dealing with injuries or looking for a late-season spark.
“Clyde still has plenty of upside,” said NFL analyst Ian Rapoport. “A change of scenery might be exactly what he needs to reignite his career.”
Potential landing spots include the Baltimore Ravens, who have faced injuries in their backfield, or the Arizona Cardinals, who may be looking to experiment with new talent as they rebuild their roster. Edwards-Helaire’s experience in high-pressure games could also make him an asset for teams on the cusp of playoff contention.
Fantasy Football Impact
From a fantasy perspective, Edwards-Helaire’s departure has minimal immediate impact, as his usage in Kansas City had already dwindled significantly. However, his potential signing with a new team could make him a speculative add in deeper leagues, particularly if he lands in a situation where he could see consistent touches.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs’ backfield becomes even more solidified around Isiah Pacheco, who continues to deliver as Kansas City’s lead rusher. Jerick McKinnon remains a valuable piece in the passing game, particularly in PPR (points per reception) formats.
Edwards-Helaire’s journey serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of NFL careers. While his time in Kansas City didn’t pan out as expected, the 24-year-old running back still has time to carve out a new chapter in his professional career.