Kareem Hunt The Kansas City Chiefs, reigning Super Bowl champions, have made a significant move to address their running back woes following the injury to starter Isiah Pacheco, who is now on the Injured List. In an effort to strengthen their backfield, the Chiefs have signed veteran running back Kareem Hunt to their practice squad, as reported by the NFL Network.
Hunt, who had been a free agent after spending the previous season with the Cleveland Browns, rushed for 411 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023 while serving in a backup capacity. His experience and skill set make him a valuable addition, especially in light of Pacheco’s expected six-week absence.
The Chiefs are navigating a challenging situation, as their depth at the running back position has taken a hit. With Pacheco sidelined, the team’s second-string back, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, is also unavailable due to being placed on the non-football illness list. This leaves Kansas City relying on veteran Samaje Perine and rookie fullback Carson Steele as their primary options to fill the gap left by Pacheco.
Kareem Hunt is no stranger to the Chiefs, having started his professional career with the team after being selected in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. During his impressive rookie season, Hunt led the league with a remarkable 1,327 rushing yards, showcasing his ability to be a game-changer. He also contributed significantly in the passing game, recording 53 receptions for 455 yards and three touchdowns, earning himself Pro Bowl honors.
However, Hunt’s tenure with the Chiefs came to an abrupt end midway through his second season due to off-field issues that led to his release. Following his departure, he spent the next five years with the Browns, where he continued to make an impact as a versatile running back.
With the Chiefs now bringing Hunt back into the fold, fans are curious to see how he will fit into the team’s offensive scheme once again. His familiarity with the organization, combined with his experience in the league, could provide a much-needed boost during Pacheco’s recovery period. The Chiefs are hopeful that Hunt’s return can help maintain their competitive edge as they aim for another successful season.
Overall, the signing of Kareem Hunt is a strategic move by the Chiefs to bolster their running back position amid injury setbacks. As the team prepares for upcoming games, they will be looking to leverage Hunt’s talents and leadership to navigate the challenges ahead, hoping he can replicate some of the success he had during his initial stint with the franchise.