Chiefs' Running Back Pass Protection Under Scrutiny
The Kansas City Chiefs waived Emari Demercado, a surprise given his strong pass protection, leaving younger backs to protect Patrick Mahomes. Coach Andy Reid praised Emmett Johnson's pass protection, but Ken Walker and Brashard Smith have unproven abilities in that area. The team appears confident in its current running back room despite the concerns.
The Chiefs' decision to waive Emari Demercado came despite his reputation as a reliable pass blocker, a role that carries particular weight given Patrick Mahomes' importance to the offense. Emmett Johnson secured the No. 2 spot, with Andy Reid specifically citing his pass protection as the deciding factor in that competition.
Brashard Smith also drew praise from running backs coach DeMarco Murray for his protection work, though both young backs remain largely unproven in that area. The team's current roster structure includes 53 active players, a 16-man practice squad, eight on injured reserve, and one on the physically unable to perform list, reflecting the fluid nature of NFL roster management.
The Chiefs' handling of running back pass protection could influence how other NFL teams evaluate the position, particularly the balance between young talent and proven blocking ability. Fans and analysts may view this as a test of the coaching staff's judgment, with Mahomes' safety as the ultimate measure. If the approach succeeds, it could validate trusting unproven players; if not, it may prompt broader scrutiny of roster decisions league-wide.