Who Should I Start? Jerick McKinnon or Clyde Edwards-Helaire

Wednesday, January 10, 12:32 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon (hernia, pelvis) was on crutches on Tuesday in his first day back at the team's facility following sports-hernia surgery on Jan. 2, which was performed by Dr. Williams Meyers. In addition to a sports hernia, McKinnon fractured his pelvis. It all means that McKinnon is doubtful to return for the postseason, even if the Chiefs make another run to the Super Bowl this year. The 31-year-old is eligible for free agency in March but has expressed interest in returning to Kansas City. McKinnon missed the final three games of the regular season and finished 2023 with just 21 carries for 60 yards and one touchdown while adding 25 receptions for 192 yards and four touchdowns through the air in 12 games played. Clyde Edwards-Helaire will have a bigger role as the No. 2 in KC's backfield behind Isiah Pacheco now that McKinnon is out.

Saturday, November 1, 2:09 PM

The Kansas City Chiefs have elevated running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire from their practice squad for the team's Week 9 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. With running back Isiah Pacheco (knee) out, Edwards-Helaire will give the Chiefs a little extra depth in their running back room. Veteran back Kareem Hunt should be expected to serve as the team's early-down and goal-line rusher, with rookie Brashard Smith mixing in in a gadget and passing-downs role. However, both Edwards-Helaire and Elijah Mitchell could steal a few touches away from Hunt and Smith. Edwards-Helaire has not appeared in a game yet this season. Across two games for the New Orleans Saints in 2024, he recorded 70 scrimmage yards on 16 touches. Edwards-Helaire should remain off fantasy radars heading into Week 9.