Brett Veach’s serious mistake with running backs takes its toll on the Chiefs, and Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes have just realized it

It was a cold, drizzly November afternoon in Kansas City. The wind whipped through Arrowhead Stadium, carrying the scent of tailgate smoke and the faint murmur of anxious fans. The Chiefs, usually a well-oiled machine, sputtered and stalled against a surprisingly resilient opponent. The problem wasn’t Patrick Mahomes, who, as always, was making improbable throws and extending plays with Houdini-like escapes. And it wasn’t entirely on Andy Reid, though some questionable play calls had fans scratching their heads. No, the issue was glaringly obvious: the running game was anemic. And that, many believe, leads directly to Brett Veach and his running back personnel decisions. The whispers started in the stands, growing louder with each failed run attempt. “Veach really messed this one up,” one fan grumbled, pulling his collar tighter against the wind. (He wasn’t alone in that sentiment, by the way.)

The statistics painted a grim picture. Yards per carry were down, explosive plays were nonexistent, and the Chiefs offense, typically a juggernaut, lacked its usual balance. Defenses were keying in on Mahomes, knowing that the threat of a consistent ground game was minimal. The frustration was palpable, radiating from the sidelines to the press box, where analysts furiously scribbled notes, trying to dissect what had gone wrong. It’s not that they didn’t *have* running backs; it was more about the quality, the consistency, and the overall impact they were having (or, more accurately, *not* having) on the game. And you know who’s responsible for bringing in those players? Brett Veach, the man in charge.

The question now isn’t just about this season. It’s about the future. Can the Chiefs, with their current running back situation, truly contend for another Super Bowl? Or will the lack of a reliable ground game ultimately derail their championship aspirations? This isn’t a minor inconvenience; this is a potential Achilles’ heel, and it’s one that Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes are likely starting to feel the sting of, perhaps even acknowledge privately, even if they’re not saying so publicly. (I can only imagine the conversations happening behind closed doors in the Chiefs’ facility.) The clock is ticking, and the pressure is mounting on Veach to find a solution, before it’s too late.

The Pacheco Gamble: Did it Pay Off?

The current state of the Chiefs’ running backs room hinges largely on Isiah Pacheco. Drafted in the seventh round, Pacheco has shown flashes of brilliance, a hard-nosed runner with a knack for finding the end zone. However, consistency has been an issue. One week he’s a game-changer; the next, he’s struggling to find running lanes. “He’s got the heart,” one anonymous scout said. “But can he be *the* guy? That’s the million-dollar question.” The Chiefs were hoping Pacheco would be the solution to their RB problem, a steal in the late rounds.

The problem is relying too heavily on a late-round pick to be your bell cow. Injuries are always a concern, and the wear and tear of the NFL can quickly take its toll. If Pacheco goes down, the Chiefs are left with even less proven talent.

The Clyde Edwards-Helaire Experiment: A Bust?

The selection of Clyde Edwards-Helaire in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft was met with considerable fanfare. Many believed he was the perfect fit for Andy Reid’s offense, a dynamic playmaker who could excel as both a runner and a receiver. However, Edwards-Helaire has largely failed to live up to the hype. Injuries have plagued his career, and when healthy, he hasn’t consistently shown the explosiveness or versatility that made him such a highly touted prospect.

Some argue that Edwards-Helaire hasn’t been given a fair chance, that the offensive line hasn’t been good enough to create running lanes. Others point to his lack of durability and explosiveness as the primary reasons for his struggles. Regardless of the cause, the fact remains that Edwards-Helaire hasn’t been the answer at running back that the Chiefs were hoping for. The pick looks like a serious misjudgment now.

It’s crucial to remember that the running game isn’t solely about the individual talent of the running backs. The offensive line plays a vital role. However, even with a solid offensive line, a talented running back can make a significant difference. And that’s where the Chiefs are currently lacking. They need a back who can consistently gain yards after contact, who can make defenders miss, and who can provide a spark to the offense when it’s needed most.

The Free Agency Misses: A Costly Oversight?

Beyond the draft, Brett Veach has also faced criticism for his lack of aggression in free agency when it comes to the running back position. While the Chiefs have prioritized other positions, some argue that they should have invested more heavily in a proven veteran to bolster their ground game.

There have been opportunities to sign established running backs in recent years, but the Chiefs have consistently opted to go with cheaper options or rely on young, unproven players. This strategy has backfired, as the Chiefs have struggled to find a consistent and reliable presence in the backfield.

The reluctance to spend big on a running back is understandable, given the position’s perceived devaluing in the modern NFL. However, the Chiefs’ offensive struggles this season highlight the importance of having a solid ground game, even in a pass-heavy league.

Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes: The Unspoken Frustration

While Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes are known for their positive attitudes and unwavering belief in their players, it’s hard to imagine that they aren’t at least somewhat frustrated with the current state of the running back situation. Mahomes, in particular, relies on a balanced offense to keep defenses honest and create opportunities for his receivers. When the running game is ineffective, defenses can focus solely on stopping the pass, making Mahomes’ job significantly more difficult.

“Patrick’s a competitor,” a source close to the team said. “He wants to win, and he knows that having a strong running game is essential for achieving that goal. I’m sure he’s voiced his concerns internally.” Andy Reid, a master strategist, also understands the importance of a balanced attack. His offense is designed to exploit weaknesses in opposing defenses, and a consistent ground game is a key component of that strategy.

It’s unlikely that either Reid or Mahomes would publicly criticize Brett Veach or the running backs. They are professionals who understand the importance of maintaining team cohesion. However, their body language and subtle comments in press conferences may hint at their underlying frustration. It’s a delicate situation, one that requires careful management from everyone involved.

The Future of the Chiefs’ Running Game: What Needs to Happen?

The Chiefs need to address their running back situation urgently. Whether that means making a trade, signing a free agent, or drafting a top prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft, something needs to change. The status quo is simply not sustainable.

Here are a few potential solutions:

* Trade for a proven veteran: There are several established running backs who could potentially be available via trade. The Chiefs could explore acquiring one of these players to provide an immediate boost to their ground game.
* Sign a free agent: While the free agent market for running backs isn’t always robust, there may be some undervalued players who could contribute to the Chiefs’ offense.
* Draft a top prospect: The Chiefs could use one of their high draft picks to select a talented running back in the upcoming NFL Draft. This would be a long-term solution, but it could pay off handsomely if they find the right player.

Ultimately, the decision rests with Brett Veach. He needs to evaluate the current situation, identify the best course of action, and execute a plan that will improve the Chiefs’ running game and give Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes the support they need to compete for championships. Failure to do so could have serious consequences for the Chiefs’ Super Bowl aspirations.

The Chiefs are a team built on explosive offense and dynamic playmaking. They need a ground game that complements their passing attack, not hinders it. The clock is ticking, and the pressure is on. Will Veach step up and fix the problem, or will the running back woes continue to plague the Chiefs? Only time will tell.

The situation feels like a pressure cooker. The fans are restless, the media is scrutinizing every move, and the weight of expectations is heavy. It’s a defining moment for Brett Veach, a test of his ability to make tough decisions and navigate the complexities of roster management. His legacy in Kansas City may well depend on how he addresses this critical issue. One thing is certain: the Chiefs’ season, and perhaps their future, hangs in the balance.