Andy Reid reveals what rookie Brashard Smith must improve in order to potentially develop into Chiefs’ lead RB
Smith’s workload has increased throughout the season.
The Kansas City Chiefs have been pretty consistent with their running back usage this season.
Starter Isiah Pacheco has been the No. 1 guy, leading the team with 66 carries. Veteran Kareem Hunt is the short-yardage specialist, and rookie Brashard Smith has mostly played during passing situations.
Smith did get a career-high 14 carries on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders due to Kansas City having the game well in hand during the second half. He also caught five passes for 42 yards, and is averaging 8.7 yards per reception this season.
Chiefs fans were excited when the team drafted Smith last spring due to his receiving skills and 4.3-second 40-yard dash speed. His role has expanded within K.C.’s offense a little bit more each week, leaving many to wonder if he could eventually become the lead back.
Chiefs HC Andy Reid happy with RB room, wants to see Brashard Smith get stronger
“I’ve always believed you need three guys,” Reid told the media on Monday. “We’ve normally used all three when we’ve had them. I’ve done that for a lot of years now, and they’re all contributing in their own way. I think it’s important for Pop (Pacheco) to get in there and get going. He’s at his best when he does that. Kareem understands that, and we’re able to pick and choose where he goes in.
“Then Smith gives you a whole different deal, because he played the wide receiver position at the University of Miami before he got to SMU, so his ability to catch the ball and on screens and those type of things is good. He’s got the protections down now, so he can stand back there and still protect. He’s not quite as strong as the other guys. If we had to pick something where he can get better at, he’s going to need an offseason to get even stronger than what he is to tote it every place. But, he’ll work on that. He’s a pretty diligent kid.”
Smith stands at 5-foot-10 and weighs in at 196 pounds. Smaller running backs can certainly play at a high level, but it takes time to develop NFL strength. We’ve seen Smith run strong and break tackles, but Reid is likely referring more to pass blocking.
When Smith shows he can hold his own against pass rushers, he could find himself getting the majority of snaps among Chiefs RBs. However, as Reid said, we may have to wait until next season when Smith adds a little more strength.