In a jaw-dropping twist, the Kansas City Chiefs have sent shockwaves through the NFL with reports that they’re actively seeking to bolster their running back corps through a trade. According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the Chiefs are eyeing high-profile names like Houston Texans’ Dameon Pierce, Washington Commanders’ Brian Robinson Jr., or even one of Jacksonville’s dynamic duo, Travis Etienne Jr. or Tank Bigsby. This bombshell news has left fans buzzing and casts a harsh spotlight on the team’s current running back room.
The Chiefs’ backfield, led by the explosive Isiah Pacheco and veteran Kareem Hunt, already boasts a mix of grit, speed, and potential with players like Elijah Mitchell, Brashard Smith, and Carson Steele. However, this sudden pursuit of a new running back signals that not everyone in the group is safe. While Pacheco and Hunt are virtual locks for the 53-man roster, the same cannot be said for the others. The writing appears to be on the wall for two players in particular: Elijah Mitchell and Brashard Smith.
The Chiefs’ decision to explore the trade market is a clear sign that head coach Andy Reid and the front office lack full confidence in their current depth chart. Mitchell, a recent free-agent signing on a one-year deal, and Smith, a seventh-round draft pick, are the most vulnerable. Despite their unique skill sets—Mitchell’s proven track record as a reliable runner and Smith’s versatility as a dynamic playmaker—neither seems poised to challenge Pacheco or Hunt for significant snaps in the 2025 season.
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Training camp reports suggest Mitchell has struggled to carve out a role, while Smith’s multifaceted abilities offer a glimmer of hope. However, the Chiefs’ reported trade interest implies that both players are on shaky ground. With roster cuts looming, their performances in the upcoming preseason finale against the Chicago Bears could be make-or-break. Friday night’s game has suddenly become a high-stakes audition for the duo, as the Chiefs’ brass will be watching closely to determine who deserves to stay.
The Chiefs’ running back room is now a pressure cooker, with every carry, block, and special teams play under intense scrutiny. Pacheco remains the undisputed workhorse, and Hunt’s veteran presence makes him a safe bet. But for Mitchell, Smith, and Steele, the path to a roster spot is fraught with uncertainty. Steele, a fan favorite for his hard-nosed style, could still sneak onto the roster if he outshines his competitors in the final preseason game.
This unexpected roster shake-up has turned the Chiefs’ running back competition into one of the most compelling storylines of the preseason. Fans will be glued to their screens, watching to see who rises to the occasion and who falls short. As Kansas City prepares to finalize its 53-man roster, one thing is clear: the Chiefs are playing for keeps, and two players are likely on their way out the door.