Chiefs: 3 players who clinched a roster spot in the first preseason game

2. RB Jerick McKinnon

McKinnon had 40 yards from scrimmage (19 rushing) with two 10-plus yard plays on five touches (two catches) against San Francisco. He also had a 23-yard kickoff return, and got some time on special teams coverage units too.

The Chiefs aren’t so much unsettled as uncertain behind Clyde Edwards-Helaire, with McKinnon, Darrel Williams, Darwin Thompson, Elijah McGuire and Mike Burton currently competing for the remaining spots on the running back depth chart. Injuries have derailed McKinnon’s career in recent years, but his track record is the best of that backup bunch and that may ultimately count for something.

The Chiefs obviously wanted to get a long look at McKinnon in the first preseason game, perhaps as a nod to him having played for the 49ers, and he performed well in multiple areas (he also had a special teams tackle). It’s not a reach to say he clinched a roster spot with his showing against San Francisco, and his usage in the second preseason game will be worth noting.