The Kansas City Chiefs are aiming to improve their offense balance in 2025, with particular emphasis on revitalizing their running game. After struggling to find consistency on the ground during the 2024 season, partly due to Isiah Pacheco’s early injury, the Chiefs shifted much of the workload to Kareem Hunt. While Hunt provided dependable output, the running attack lacked the explosive ability needed to transform games.
This offseason, the Chiefs added Elijah Mitchell from the San Francisco 49ers, hoping his skill set will bring a new dynamic to their backfield. At 26 years old, Mitchell is known for his rapid acceleration and breakaway speed, traits that could complement the physical running styles of Pacheco and Hunt and provide Kansas City with a versatile trio to challenge defenses.
Elijah Mitchell’s Role and Readiness for Impact
Mitchell missed the entire previous season recovering from a hamstring injury but has arrived at training camp fully healed and motivated. His experience catching passes from the backfield matches the Chiefs’ style, potentially adding an additional layer to their offensive strategy.
Running the ball, catching the ball out the back-field is huge, I did the same thing in San Francisco. So, man, I’m excited. I’m excited for it.
—Elijah Mitchell, Running Back
His ability to excel as both a runner and receiver gives head coach Andy Reid more flexibility in offensive play design and could open up new opportunities for Patrick Mahomes to exploit defenses.
Building a Three-Pronged Backfield to Complement Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes has been the centerpiece of the Chiefs’ passing attack for years, but a balanced offense with a strong running game has repeatedly proved essential for sustained success. With Pacheco returning at full strength and Hunt settled into his role, Mitchell’s speed offers a fresh threat. This combination enhances the Chiefs’ options to challenge defenses in varied ways.
Mitchell demonstrated his potential with the 49ers by creating explosive plays and stretching defenses, a quality Kansas City sorely missed last year. When paired with Pacheco’s physical power and Hunt’s all-around skills, this running back trio has the capacity to transform the ground attack into a consistent weapon.
How touches will be divided among the three remains uncertain, but their collective talent could reduce the physical strain on any individual running back during the long season, keeping the unit fresher and more effective.
Outlook for the Chiefs’ Offense in 2025
As the Chiefs prepare for the 2025 season, strengthening their rushing attack is a key factor in maintaining their elite status. If Mitchell stays healthy and delivers on his promise, Kansas City could regain a balanced offense that forces opponents to respect both the ground game and Mahomes’ passing prowess.
This could lead to a more unpredictable and potent offense, helping the Chiefs sustain their competitive edge and continue setting the standard in the NFL for offensive versatility and effectiveness.