Through three games in the 2025 NFL season, the Kansas City Chiefs sit at 1-2, and it’s safe to say the offense hasn’t lived up to the standard fans have come to expect from Patrick Mahomes and company.
Many of Kansas City’s issues stem from its inconsistent running game, and one analyst recently predicted that the Chiefs could trade for a $4.78 million running back to help bolster the backfield.
Chiefs Predicted To Trade for $4.78 Million Running Back To Help Struggling Offense
Under Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs’ offense almost always ranks near the top of the league. That hasn’t been the case this year. Through three games, Kansas City holds a PFSN Offensive Impact (OFFi) grade of just 72.9, placing them 18th in the NFL.
A big reason for that drop-off is the lack of production in the run game. Mahomes currently leads the team in rushing, and neither Isiah Pacheco nor Kareem Hunt, the Chiefs’ top two backs, has even eclipsed 100 rushing yards this season.
Because of that lack of production, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler recently predicted that the Chiefs could make a move for Jaylen Wright of the Miami Dolphins to inject some life into their run game.
Fowler pointed out that Kansas City needs help in the backfield, and with Miami not utilizing Wright this year due to an injury he suffered in the preseason, a trade could make sense for both sides.
“But the running game still needs help,” Fowler wrote. “Miami isn’t playing running back Jaylen Wright, who had a lot of fans in the 2024 draft. It might be worth a call for Kansas City.”
The Dolphins drafted Wright in the fourth round out of Tennessee in the 2024 NFL Draft. He rushed for 249 yards on 68 attempts during his rookie season but has yet to play in 2025. Miami selected Ollie Gordon in the 2025 draft, and he has essentially taken over as the team’s No. 2 running back, behind De’Von Achane, which could make Wright an expendable piece.
Wright is an elite athlete with top-end speed, posting a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at the 2024 NFL Combine. While he hasn’t proven himself as an every-down back at the NFL level, he could bring the burst and explosiveness that Kansas City’s backfield currently lacks.
In addition, his total rookie contract is worth $4,780,020, so he would be a relatively cheap acquisition for the Chiefs. Overall, this is a deal worth exploring for both teams, especially with Miami potentially looking to sell as they sit at 0-3 to start the season.
The Chiefs are 1-2 and have a tough Week 4 matchup with the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, September 28, which puts them at risk of falling to 1-3. The offense needs a spark, and Wright could be the player to provide it.
