The Kansas City Chiefs have entered training camp aiming to secure a deep run in this <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL season’s playoffs, relying heavily on their star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Despite improvements across the AFC West, Mahomes remains the team’s key asset and a significant influence on its offensive success.

As Mahomes approaches his ninth NFL season, his role as a leader of the franchise has only strengthened. His widespread recognition as one of the league’s top quarterbacks can be daunting for new players, particularly rookies integrating into the Chiefs’ system.

Rookies Impress Early, Including Seventh-Round Pick Brashard Smith

First-round pick Josh Simmons has already stood out during camp, earning positive attention from coaches and teammates. Alongside Simmons, seventh-round running back Brashard Smith has been impressing during practices, showing promising development and eagerness to contribute.

Smith, a product of SMU, shared his thoughts on working with Patrick Mahomes after a recent practice session. He emphasized the importance of timing and being quick in recognizing plays to build a strong connection with the quarterback.

“He’s the best quarterback in the league, so it’s just timing. I’ll say just being quicker, that one step quicker, just having my eyes back, just being there for him, and just being someone there for him,” —Brashard Smith, Rookie Running Back

Gaining Confidence While Improving Physical Play

For many rookies, training camp can be an intimidating experience, but Smith has steadily gained confidence by focusing on his assigned role within the team. He demonstrated noticeable progress in running the ball up the middle during Tuesday’s practice, which has increased the coaching staff’s trust in his abilities.

“I think I’m doing better for sure as far as making contact and running up and giving a thud, so I feel like I’m doing better and better, and I feel like I’ll be good at it,” —Brashard Smith, Rookie Running Back

Smith’s speed and physicality provide the Chiefs with promising depth in their running back room. While the competition remains strong, he acknowledges that continuous improvement is essential, whether that means excelling as a running back or contributing elsewhere on offense.

Looking Ahead to the Season

With Patrick Mahomes continuing to lead the offense and rookies like Brashard Smith developing their skills, the Chiefs appear well-positioned to maintain their competitive edge this season. Smith’s approach of learning from Mahomes and trusting his improving abilities serves as a hopeful sign for the team’s future.

The progress shown during training camp will be critical as the Chiefs aim to extend their playoff presence and build on the foundation established by their franchise leader and rising talent alike.