Chiefs Part Ways with Clyde Edwards-Helaire: A Look Back at His Rollercoaster Journey

The Rise of Clyde Edwards-Helaire Clyde Edwards-Helaire burst onto the NFL scene with high expectations following his remarkable college career at LSU. He was a pivotal member of the Tigers' 2019 team, which not only won the national championship but also showcased future NFL superstars like Joe Burrow, Justin Jefferson, and Ja'Marr Chase. The Chiefs selected him as the first running back off the board in the 2020 draft, hoping he would add a dynamic element to their already potent offense. In his rookie season, Edwards-Helaire did not disappoint. He racked up over 1,100 yards from scrimmage and found the end zone five times, establishing himself as the featured back for a Chiefs team that finished 13-1 and advanced to the Super Bowl. His performance gave fans and analysts alike hope for a bright future in Kansas City. Declining Production and Changing Roles Despite a promising start, Edwards-Helaire's production began to wane in the following seasons. As the Chiefs continued to evolve their offensive strategy, his role diminished significantly. By 2022, he lost his starting position to then-rookie Isiah Pacheco, who quickly became a fan favorite and a crucial part of the Chiefs’ Super Bowl-winning run. In the 2023 season, Edwards-Helaire struggled to find his footing, appearing in minimal games and contributing sparingly. The decision to waive him underscores the Chiefs' commitment to maximizing their roster's potential, especially as they aim to defend their Super Bowl title. A Look Ahead: What’s Next for Edwards-Helaire? With Edwards-Helaire now a free agent, the question arises: what’s next for the former first-round pick? Given his college pedigree and flashes of brilliance during his rookie campaign, he may attract interest from teams looking to bolster their backfield. However, he will need to demonstrate that he can regain the form that made him a highly sought-after prospect just a few years ago.