Chiefs can make Patrick Mahomes' life much easier by improving in one specific category that they were shockingly bad in last year

In 2024 Chiefs running backs had just 5.8 percent of their designed yardage produced on 15+ yard carries, the third-lowest by any team since 2006. That is shockingly bad, and makes the fact that Mahomes was able to lead the team to the Super Bowl all the more impressive.

As Football Insights went on to point out, as great as Mahomes is, continually putting that amount of pressure on him to carry the offense as he enters his 30s is less than ideal. K.C. not only needs more production out of its running game, but more explosive plays.

Isiah Pacheco missing nine games with a fractured fibula certainly had a hugely negative impact on the Chiefs ability to run the ball well in 2024, and he wasn't himself when he returned to action. Hopefully the extra muscle he has put on during the offseason will pay dividends in 2025.

Kareem Hunt was steady for K.C. last year, but lacked speed and agility. At this stage of his career, he needs to mostly serve as a short yardage and goal line RB. The Chiefs signed Elijah Mitchell during free agency, who has good speed and receiving abilities, but an extensive injury history.

A potential X-factor for the Chiefs' rushing attack could be 2025 seventh-round draft pick Brashard Smith. Like Mitchell, Smith also has top end speed and impressive receiving skills, but obviously has a lot of learning to do as a rookie. Perhaps all four RBs can bring something to the table and collectively improve K.C.'s running game. If not, 2025 could be another stressful year for Mahomes.