With NFL clubs giving players the chance to opt-out for the season due to the pandemic, several players have taken the offer, and will sit out. A long time Las Vegas Raiders rival have already had a couple surprising opt-outs. Two Kansas City Chiefs players have already made the decision not to partake in the 2020 season.
First, it was guard Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, who cited the need for doctors at the frontlines. Later, running back Damien Williams would follow suit and informed the team of his decision on Jul. 29.Â
Although both losses will affect the Chiefs, it may be Williams who’s the most significant one of the two.Â
The Chiefs will still present a difficult match for the Raiders
Williams gained fame in the Super Bowl after he recorded 104 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Against the Raiders, the running back didn’t log such impressive numbers though. Nevertheless, there will likely be a new starter at the running back for the Chiefs. Raiders head coach Gruden and defensive coordinator Paul Guenther can’t just go to sleep soundly yet.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire was the Chiefs sole first-round pick at No. 32 coming out of football powerhouse LSU. While Edwards-Helaire may not fit Kansas City’s offensive reputation as a track star (4.6 40 at the combine) his college production speaks for itself.
Related:Â How Have Player Opt-Outs Affected the AFC West?
Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire is ready to carry the load
In his junior year, the running back had 1,414 yards and averaged 6.6 per carry. If that wasn’t enough, “Clydesdale” contributed with 16 rushing touchdowns. Moreover, he hauled 55 passes for 453 yards and one receiving touchdown. Edwards-Helaire is clearly another elusive and physical target for MVP quarterback Pat Mahomes to terrorize defenses with on the ground and in the air.
The Las Vegas Raiders have consistently ranked near the bottom of the league defensively and their meetings with the Chiefs have been disastrous as of late. The expectation for improvement rests on the shoulders of the Raiders new linebacker corps and the revamped front line. The Raiders faithful will be looking for Guenther to scheme around yet another explosive Chiefs offense. Week 5 of the upcoming will give the Silver and Black a chance to test their improved defense against “Clydesdale” in Kansas City.
[pickup_prop id=”20672″]
You May Also Like:Â Derek Carr Will Get Chance To Win At Arrowhead
