Kansas City Chiefs Running Back Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s 2022 season was filled with ups and downs. Edwards-Helaire shared his perspective on the season during a media interview. Edwards-Helaire wasn’t fazed and did his best to return to the gridiron. Edwards- Helaire said,” There were some things, some trials and tribulations throughout that time but it was never just down and out. I was just doing the things I needed to do in the building (and) outside the building in order to get to the position that I am today as far as practicing.”
Edwards-Helaire was expected to be Kansas City’s top running back. However, seventh-rounder Isaiah Pacheco took over in the middle of the season. Pacheco never looked back after being promoted to starting running back.
Edwards-Helaire last scored a touchdown on October 23, 2022. Edwards-Helaire scored a rushing touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers.
Edwards-Helaire finished the season with 302 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.
In three seasons, Edwards-Helaire has rushed for 1,622 yards and scored 11 rushing touchdowns. Edwards-Helaire has caught 72 passes, recorded 577 receiving yards and has scored six receiving touchdowns.
Chiefs General Manager decided to decline Edwards-Helaire’s fifth-year option. According to Spotrac Edwards-Helaire will make $3.4 million in 2023.
Injuries
Like other NFL players and running backs Edwards-Helaire has dealt with injuries. Since entering the league in 2020, Edwards-Helaire six injuries. Injuries that include three ankle sprains, an MCL sprain, Hip strain and a shoulder. Kansas City placed Edwards-Helaire on injured reserve in November.
A Breakout Season?
Edwards-Helaire enters 2023 fighting for a second contract. He must prove his worth to Kansas City’s front office.
I believe Edwards-Helaire can have a breakout season. However, I don’t think it’s going to happen on the ground. Edwards-Helaire’s value is greatest as a receiver. Andy Reid puts his running backs in space. Running backs catch a lot of screen passes and short passes in Reid’s offense. When defenses cover Kansas City’s wide receivers and tight ends, Edwards-Helaire can catch passes.
Final Note
Kansas City’s running back core is strong. Pacheco is the bruising back, McKinnon is a terrific receiver and Edwards-Helaire is a talented receiver.