5 NFL rookies who will dominate immediately in 2020

1. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, RB, Kansas City Chiefs

As if the Chiefs offense needed help, they went out and drafted Edwards- Helaire in the first round to upgrade what has been a lagging rushing attack. Damien Williams is still around after leading the team with 498 rushing yards last year, but he is eminently replaceable. Edwards-Helaire was handpicked by Patrick Mahomes, which is a significant point in his corner.

Edwards-Helaire became a star for national champion LSU last year, with over 1,400 rushing yards (6.6 yards per carry), 14 rushing scores and 55 receptions. He was also very productive when it counted most, as 36 percent of his carries last year (77) went for a first down or a touchdown.

As a shorter (5-foot-7), but solidly built back (207 pounds), Edwards’ Helaire invites comparisons to the likes of Maurice Jones-Drew, Brian Westbrook or even Barry Sanders.

The Chiefs are obviously not going to immediately anoint Edwards-Helaire as the lead back, and Williams will still have some sort of a role. But the idea Kansas City’s offense can reach a new level with a more proficient running game is a scary thought for the opposition. Once Edwards-Helaire shows he’s the team’s best back, which seems inevitable and should come early, the sky is the limit for him individually as well.