Who Should I Start? Jerick McKinnon or Ty Chandler

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.

Friday, March 1, 12:15 AM

After the release of running back Alexander Mattison on Thursday, Minnesota Vikings running back Ty Chandler is the team's starter at the position. After the release of Dalvin Cook, Mattison operated as Minnesota's lead back in 2023, taking 180 carries for 700 yards and no rushing touchdowns. Chandler, a former fifth-round pick in 2022, served as a complementary back and saw 102 rushing attempts for 461 yards (4.5 yards per carry) and three rushing scores, adding 21 receptions for 159 additional yards in his second season. The 25-year-old was more efficient than Mattison and should have a bigger role in Minnesota's backfield in 2024, but the Vikings will likely look to add to their RB through the offseason, through either the draft or free agency, or both.