Last summer, Kareem Hunt spent his 29th birthday away from the football field and in unfamiliar circumstances, as he found himself without a team on August 6. Typically engaged in preseason football activities by this date, Hunt was instead in Cleveland, focusing on family and personal fitness while waiting for another chance to play professionally.
I was hanging out with my family, taking my boat out every day and just working out; staying in shape, waiting on the call. … I wasn’t trying to celebrate my birthday, but I got to celebrate, so that was cool.
—Kareem Hunt, running back
First Full Offseason with the Chiefs Brings Renewed Focus
Unlike previous years where Hunt missed crucial offseasons, this year marked his first complete preparation period with the Kansas City Chiefs. Head coach Andy Reid noted the significance of this development, highlighting Hunt’s improved readiness and conditioning heading into the new season.
He’s had an offseason. He kind of missed two offseasons there, and he had this offseason, worked hard. Now, he’s coming into training camp, he’s in good shape, and I would expect good things.
—Andy Reid, head coach
He’ll be in there rotating and doing his thing. And he’s just a good, good solid football player. Love having him here.
—Andy Reid, head coach
Returning to Familiar Ground After Free Agency Setback
Following five seasons with Cleveland, Hunt went unsigned during free agency last year. However, when the Kansas City Chiefs faced a significant setback early in the 2023 season, losing star running back Isiah Pacheco to a fibula fracture in Week 2, Hunt stepped up as a vital asset. The Chiefs re-acquired the player they originally drafted in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, just 76 picks behind Patrick Mahomes.
Hunt quickly integrated into the Chiefs’ offense, starting in eight games and rushing for 728 yards with seven touchdowns on 200 carries. His postseason contributions included touchdowns against both Houston and Buffalo, playing a key role in advancing Kansas City back to the Super Bowl.
The Chiefs secured Hunt’s stay with a one-year contract renewed on March 14, 2024, valued at $1.5 million and offering up to $1 million in performance incentives.
Increased Confidence from a Consistent Offseason Routine
This full offseason experience has left a noticeable impact on Hunt’s mindset and preparation compared to the uncertainty he faced last year. He described his recent months as far more structured, allowing him to maintain high levels of training and conditioning without interruption.
Oh, for sure. I was more locked in, staying on schedule. Because (last summer) I didn’t know when I was going to get picked up, or when I was going to have the opportunity, or if I was going to have the opportunity to play again.
—Kareem Hunt, running back
So, I stayed on top of things this offseason, made sure I stayed in good shape from OTAs and was just able to keep building on what I’ve already built.
—Kareem Hunt, running back
Hunt’s Role as a Short-Yardage Specialist
Over the past two years, Hunt has developed a reputation as an elite short-yardage back, a skill that played a crucial role in the Chiefs’ strong 2023 season, which saw them win 15 games despite injuries to key skill players and challenges on their offensive line. His ability to convert critical third- and fourth-down situations consistently kept drives alive and contributed to the team’s overall success.
In 2024, Hunt converted 15 out of 18 attempts (83.3%) in these high-pressure short yardage scenarios, improving on his 2023 mark of 15 of 20 (75%) while with Cleveland.
I take pride in whatever I do,
Hunt said, emphasizing the importance of his short-yardage work.
Those are big-time plays. People don’t understand how hard it is to get those 2, 3 yards and punch it in. Those keep the drives alive and get us more opportunities to make big plays.
Keeping these legs driving, man. That’s the biggest thing, and not being tackled by one person, being able to carry a person for the extra 3, 4 yards, even if you’re hit in the backfield. Just finding a way, man.
—Kareem Hunt, running back
Looking Ahead: A Key Contributor for the Chiefs’ Season
Hunt’s renewed confidence following a full offseason, combined with his reliable performance in challenging situations, positions him as an important player for the Chiefs in 2024. His presence adds depth to the backfield and provides Kansas City with a proven short-yardage threat that has helped fuel their recent playoff successes.
As the Chiefs prepare for another competitive season, Hunt’s integration and readiness offer a promising boost, especially after overcoming uncertainty during the previous year.