NFL Rumors: A Chiefs racehorse deserves to be set free and the latest on Aaron Rodgers, Lamar Jackson
By Kristen Wong
NFL Rumors: Chiefs RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire could be a trade chip in 2023
The bane of fantasy teams for the last three years could find a new home this offseason: Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire was recently rumored to be a trade candidate.
Edwards-Helaire, who sat on the shelf for most of last season, has steadily declined since his rookie year in 2020 in part due to his waning potential and in part due to his lack of usage. In 2022, seventh-rounder Isiah Pacheco usurped CEH for No. 1 running back duties and appears primed to retain that role for 2023 and beyond.
The Chiefs are expected to decline Edwards-Helaire’s fifth-year option, making him a free agent after the 2023 season — but what if the Chiefs decide they want to get rid of him sooner?
Following the latest buzz from the NFL Combine, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said he doesn’t think Kansas City “is actively shopping [Edwards-Helaire]….It could be more of a “we will listen” situation.”
Despite CEH’s decreasing production, he proved to be an efficient goal-line back last season, totaling six regular-season touchdowns (good for third on the team). The young star should command at least a late-round pick, yet not many teams may want to take a gamble on him considering the state of the running back free agent market.
As it stands, Edwards-Helaire will play out his final year of his rookie contract in Kansas City next season, which now turns into a prove-it year for him to revive his disappointing career.