The Kansas City Chiefs have struck gold in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting running back Brashard Smith out of SMU. With a blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash time at the combine, Smith has already turned heads during offseason practices, showcasing the kind of explosive speed and versatility that could transform the Chiefs’ offense.
A New Spark for the Chiefs’ Run Game
The Chiefs’ run game in 2024, led by Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco, was solid but lacked a true dynamic element. While both backs brought physicality, neither was known for breakaway speed. Enter Smith, a former wide receiver at Miami who transitioned to running back in his final college season at SMU, where he racked up an impressive 1,332 yards and 14 touchdowns. Paired with free-agent signing Elijah Mitchell, another speedster, Smith is poised to inject much-needed “zip” into Kansas City’s ground attack.
ESPN’s Adam Teicher recently named Smith the Chiefs’ biggest surprise player of 2025, noting, “Judging from how he was utilized in offseason practices, the Chiefs have plans for Smith.” The coaching staff, led by Andy Reid, has wasted no time experimenting with Smith’s unique skill set, deploying him out of the backfield, in the slot, and even split out wide. His speed and receiving background make him a perfect fit alongside other fast playmakers like Xavier Worthy and Hollywood Brown.
Versatility That Fits Reid’s Vision
Smith’s transition from wide receiver to running back gives him a rare edge. His ability to catch passes and line up in multiple positions adds a layer of unpredictability to an already potent Chiefs offense. During offseason workouts, Reid showcased Smith’s versatility, using him in ways that suggest a tailored role in the 2025 season. Whether it’s taking handoffs, running routes from the slot, or stretching defenses as a deep threat, Smith’s 4.39 speed makes him a matchup nightmare.
This versatility aligns perfectly with Reid’s creative offensive schemes, which thrive on players who can wear multiple hats. If Smith can replicate even a fraction of his college production while leveraging his speed in the NFL, he could become a key cog in Kansas City’s quest for another Super Bowl.
Elevating Mahomes and the Passing Game
A more explosive run game could be a game-changer for Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ offense. Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles demonstrated how a dynamic rushing attack, led by Jalen Hurts and a versatile backfield, can open up opportunities in the passing game. With Smith and Mitchell adding speed to the backfield, the Chiefs hope to emulate that model. A stronger ground game will force defenses to respect the run, creating more space for Mahomes to exploit with his elite passing skills.
Smith, in particular, could be the “ace in the deck” for Reid. His ability to break off big plays on the ground or through the air could stretch defenses thin, giving Mahomes more options and making the Chiefs’ offense even more unpredictable.
The Future Is Bright
While it’s early days, Brashard Smith’s electrifying speed and multifaceted skill set have already earned him a spot in Reid’s plans. As the Chiefs aim to maintain their dominance in the AFC, this seventh-round gem could prove to be a steal. With his 4.39-second 40-yard dash speed and a knack for making plays, Smith is ready to leave his mark on the NFL—and Kansas City fans are buzzing with excite