Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire has yet to play a single down in the NFL, but the former LSU star has been thrust into the feature back role.
Damien Williams' decision to opt out of the 2020 season should lead to Edwards-Helaire getting the vast majority of the touches in the Kansas City's backfield.
Fellow Chiefs running back DeAndre Washington thinks Edwards-Helaire is up for the challenge. Washington likened the rookie's situation to that of Las Vegas Raiders running back and former teammate Josh Jacobs in 2019 (via Charles Goldman of USA TODAY):
“[It’s] a pretty similar experience,” Washington began. “Both – I feel like they’re both great backs, great strengths to their game. My experience with Josh (Jacobs) last year and like the same thing I told Clyde (Edwards-Helaire), it’s a long season, just take care of your body. Guys are going roll, guys are going to get reps and he doesn’t have to feel like he takes every rep or be the guy right now.”
The Chiefs selected Edwards-Helaire with the final pick of the first round in April.
Edwards-Helaire was one of the more dynamic weapons in the national champion Tigers backfield last year, rushing for 1,414 yards and 16 touchdowns while also hauling in 55 receptions for 453 yards and another score.
Kansas City would gladly take Jacobs-like production from its rookie back. Jacobs rushed for 1,150 yards on 4.8 yards per carry in just 13 games. Washington said he will “keep that same energy” he had as Jacobs' teammate in his mentorship of Edwards-Helaire.
Edwards-Helaire was always going to be a notable contributor in 2020. But it seems he now has the opportunity to be the next breakout star in Kansas City.
Washington certainly sees the upside.
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