3 Chiefs breakout candidates ready to shine in 2022

A more balanced offense could bring out the most in Clyde Edwards-Helaire

2022 would be a great year for running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire to channel all of that 2019 LSU Tigers energy still inside of him and be great again. Edwards-Helaire was the only running back taken in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. He may have been the last pick of the first round, but he went to the defending Super Bowl 54 champion Chiefs at the time of his selection.

Though he had his moments as a rookie, Edwards-Helaire has missed a combined 10 games over his first two years in the league. While adding Ronald Jones to the backfield should help, Kansas City drafted him to be the focal point of its ground game. Not to say he needs to rush for well over 1,000 yards, but the opportunity could be there for him if he is able to play closer to 17 games.

Because the passing game could take a slight step back, it might open up things for the run a tad in Kansas City. With Edwards-Helaire being an adept receiver out of the backfield, this has to be his breakout year for the Chiefs. Otherwise, fans will wonder why Kansas City decided to take a running back in the first round of an NFL Draft while the league has become so passing-centric.

If Edwards-Helaire really wants that fifth-year option, he is going to have to earn it this season.