Fantasy Football Dilemma: Analyzing the Kansas City Chiefs’ Backfield Options

2024 NFL Fantasy Football: The Kansas City Chiefs Running Back Situation Heading into Week 4

The Chiefs’ running back situation has been a rollercoaster for fantasy football managers heading into Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season. With Isaiah Pacheco likely sidelined for an extended period, the Chiefs’ backfield has become murky, making it difficult for fantasy owners to pinpoint which player will emerge as a reliable option. With Patrick Mahomes running the show, the Chiefs’ offense remains potent, but the running back position is a guessing game. Here’s a breakdown of the options and what to expect moving forward.

The Candidates: Samaje Perine, Carson Steele, and Kareem Hunt

With Pacheco out of the picture, the Chiefs are relying on a mix of Perine, Steele, and the recently activated Hunt. Each back brings something different to the table, but none has emerged as a clear RB1.

• Samaje Perine: Perine is the most versatile of the three, with the ability to catch passes out of the backfield, making him valuable in PPR leagues. He’s been reliable in pass protection and has shown flashes of fantasy value, but he hasn’t had a breakout game yet this season.

• Carson Steele: Steele got 18 touches in Week 3, but he didn’t do much with them, managing just over three yards per carry. He looks more like a goal-line back, and his value hinges on finding the end zone. Steele’s fantasy appeal is limited unless the Chiefs start using him more creatively in the red zone.

• Kareem Hunt: After being activated from the practice squad, Hunt is the biggest wildcard. While Hunt has been an elite fantasy back in the past, it’s unclear what he has left in the tank. If he can return to form, Hunt could eventually take over the backfield, but for now, he’s more of a stash-and-see option.

Betting Tip: Bet on Samaje Perine’s receiving yards prop. With Perine likely to see the bulk of passing-down work, he’s a safe bet to hit the over on his receiving yardage, especially in a PPR format. Mahomes loves using his backs in the short passing game, and Perine could be the beneficiary.

Chiefs’ Fantasy Outlook: A Tough Call

The Chiefs’ running back situation remains volatile, and predicting who will take the reins is tough. For now, Perine looks like the best bet, particularly in PPR leagues. He offers the most upside due to his receiving ability, which is crucial in the Chiefs’ pass-heavy offense.

Carson Steele may see goal-line work, but he hasn’t been impressive in his touches so far, making him more of a touchdown-dependent flex option. Hunt, meanwhile, remains a stash candidate who could become relevant later in the season if his workload increases.

Betting Tip: Sell Carson Steele in DFS. While Steele might get a few goal-line opportunities, his overall lack of explosiveness makes him a tough sell for DFS players. Avoid starting Steele unless you’re desperate.

Future Moves: Will the Chiefs Make a Trade?

Given the uncertainty surrounding the current group of running backs, it’s possible the Chiefs could look to make a trade later in the season. Some intriguing names could hit the trade block as other teams fall out of contention. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on potential trades that could bring in a more established running back to stabilize Kansas City’s backfield.

• Potential Trade Targets: Players like Rhamondre Stevenson oof the New England Patriots or Raheem Mostert of the Miami Dolphins could be intriguing targets if the Chiefs decide to make a move. However, trading for running backs from teams within the division—such as Javonte Williams from the Denver Broncos—seems unlikely.

Betting Tip: Bet on the Chiefs to make a trade for a running back by the trade deadline. If the current situation doesn’t improve, the Chiefs are one of the most aggressive teams when it comes to midseason moves, and they could bring in a veteran back to provide stability.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire: A Forgotten Option?

One name that hasn’t been mentioned much is Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who is currently on injured reserve. While Edwards-Helaire has struggled to stay healthy and live up to his first-round billing, he could still return later in the season and provide a spark in the Chiefs’ backfield. Fantasy managers in deep leagues may want to consider stashing him, especially if the running-back carousel continues to spin without much production.

Betting Tip: Stash Clyde Edwards-Helaire in deeper leagues. With the Chiefs’ backfield in flux, Edwards-Helaire could return and carve out a role, especially if the other backs continue to underwhelm.

Conclusion: Stay Patient, But Be Ready to Pivot

Heading into Week 4, the Chiefs’ running back situation is a mess, but there are some actionable takeaways for fantasy managers. Perine looks like the safest bet for now, especially in PPR leagues, but the entire backfield remains in flux. Keep an eye on trade rumors, as the Chiefs could look to add another back before the deadline. Until then, stay patient and be ready to pivot if a new running back emerges as the clear leader in Kansas City.

You can read all about what’s going on in the National Football League at SportsGrid.com.