04 February 2024 , 01:00
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The Kansas City Chiefs could be getting a boost for Super Bowl LVIII with the return of running back Jerick McKinnon from injury. He used to play for their opponents, the San Francisco 49ers, and could be a secret weapon for the Chiefs.
McKinnon was put on the injured list on Christmas Eve due to a groin injury, just before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Clyde Edwards-Helaire stepped in for him during his absence.
Because of a series of injuries, McKinnon was limited to 21 carries for 60 yards and one touchdown this season. But he also showed his skills in the passing game with 25 receptions for 192 yards and four scores.
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While it's good news that he's back in training, it's still not clear if he'll be fit to play in the Super Bowl. The team hasn't yet confirmed his status for the big game against the 49ers.
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During his time with the Chiefs, McKinnon has proven to be a key player in their offensive strategy, mainly as a versatile running back who can also catch passes. He's rushed for 413 yards over three seasons and caught 94 passes for 811 yards.
In the Super Bowl LVIII, where the Chiefs beat the Philadelphia Eagles 38-35, McKinnon was instrumental. He caught three passes for 15 yards and ran the ball four times for 34 yards.
Jerick McKinnon could return to the Chiefs before the Super Bowl (Getty Images)One key moment came during Kansas City's final drive. After gaining 9 yards, McKinnon cleverly stopped short of the goal line. This allowed the Chiefs to run down the clock before kicking the winning field goal with just eight seconds left. His smart move helped secure the championship for the Chiefs.
McKinnon joined the Chiefs in 2021 after stints with the Minnesota Vikings and the 49ers. Despite not being the main starting running back, he's made a significant impact. Isiah Pacheco, a seventh-round draft pick, has become the team's top choice in the backfield after rushing for 935 yards and seven touchdowns this season.
Last season, Chiefs coach Andy Reid spoke highly of the duo Pacheco and McKinnon, telling local Kansas City news: "They're both two completely different types of games," and "You have a good balance there."
Reid also had great things to say about McKinnon: "You are playing nine years at running back in the National Football League; those are dog years. The last couple years with [the Chiefs], he comes out in a very positive way and shape for the team."
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.