KC has used the rookie primarily as a receiver. He has 14 catches on 18 targets for 122 yards through Week 7. Sunday’s blowout win against the Raiders gave the Chiefs a chance to let him work as a running back. He had a career-high 14 carries for 39 yards in Week 7.
“He’s made a lot of progress,” Mahomes said Thursday, echoing his coach. “He’s going to continue to get better and better. Coach Reid’s offense is just as tough — especially for that quarterback position, because you have to do so many things like run, catch, block and everything else. He’s been a sponge, man. He’s been learning a lot and whenever he gets the chance, he’s making plays happen and I think he’s going to continue and more to continue and more. snaps And then he’s done a great job on special teams as well, which I think getting lost in things, which is huge for our team.”
Smith’s agility and quickness in the passing game add to a KC offense that is getting its offense back after two years of mediocre success. If the rookie gets more reps from the quarterback, it will only make the offense more potent. Defenses already have to deal with playmakers on the outside, Travis Kelce short and Mahomes scrambling. If they also have to worry about a quick back leaking out on third down, that will be more of a headache.
With Hunt (ankle, knee), battling injuries — he didn’t practice Thursday — the door could open wider for Smith in Week 8 Monday night against the Washington Chiefs. Washington is tied for fifth-most yards by a running back through Week 7 (291).