Kareem Hunt

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It is assumed that Isiah Pacheco will start as running back and Kareem Hunt will play the role of dutiful backup. I wouldn’t be so sure. Hunt resurrected his flailing career by returning to the Chiefs and helping them reach the Super Bowl. The lead back in this system isn’t likely to be an elite fantasy running back, but if there is a clear lead back he becomes a target for your RB2/flex spots. Pacheco was that in 2023. Hunt in 2024. When Hunt resumed his career for the Chiefs he rushed for 414 yards and five touchdowns in his first five games. Pacheco came back from injury last year, he struggled and recorded 175 rushing yards and zero touchdowns to fewer touches each game. Maybe Pacheco wasn’t fully fit or maybe Pacheco needs to be 100% to be effective. Whatever the case, Hunt has the experience to cope with whatever scenario that comes his way and his current draft price is his floor. With fortune, he becomes a decent fantasy back this season. 

"Could push Pacheco with strong camp"

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Hunt likely sees a reduced role if Isaiah Pacheco stays healthy this year, but we saw that Andy Reid was content with a strategy of three yards and a cloud of dust, if necessary. Hunt can still be the grinding power back with receiving skills who can keep the offense on schedule. Think late-career Frank Gore. 

Hunt may also earn some situational touches as a close-out back and green-zone option.