Could Clyde Edwards-Helaire be a fantasy football steal in 2024? With Jerick McKinnon’s departure, CEH’s role in the Chiefs’ offense could significantly expand.
CEH’s Potential in the Chiefs’ Backfield
The Kansas City Chiefs’ offense, led by Patrick Mahomes and Andy Reid, is a fantasy football goldmine. While Travis Kelce and the receiving corps garner much attention, the running back situation presents an intriguing opportunity in the form of Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
PFF Expert’s Take on Edwards-Helaire
Nathan Jahnke of Pro Football Focus has identified Edwards-Helaire as a top-five running back sleeper for the upcoming season. This designation stems from the potential void left by veteran Jerick McKinnon, who shared the backfield with Isiah Pacheco and Edwards-Helaire last season.
McKinnon’s Absence Creates Opportunity
With McKinnon now 32 years old and unsigned, the Chiefs’ backfield depth chart thins out considerably behind Pacheco. Keaontay Ingram and Deneric Prince, who spent most of 2023 on the practice squad, and a group of undrafted rookies are the remaining contenders. This lack of proven talent positions Edwards-Helaire as the clear handcuff to Pacheco and a potential workhorse should the starter suffer an injury.
Edwards-Helaire’s Path to Fantasy Relevance
While Edwards-Helaire hasn’t fully lived up to his first-round draft status, his talent remains undeniable. Jahnke highlights that even with a limited role, Edwards-Helaire would have significant fantasy value if Pacheco were sidelined. He argues that CEH is poised to take on a “feature role” in such a scenario.
Handcuff Strategy and Late-Round Value
In fantasy football, securing reliable handcuffs is crucial for navigating inevitable injuries. Edwards-Helaire represents a high-upside handcuff with the potential for a substantial workload. His current ADP makes him a valuable late-round target with the potential for a significant return on investment. Even if Pacheco remains healthy, Edwards-Helaire could see enough touches to warrant a roster spot in deeper leagues.
Conclusion: Is CEH Worth the Risk?
Clyde Edwards-Helaire presents a compelling case as a late-round fantasy football sleeper. While his past performance may be underwhelming, the departure of Jerick McKinnon and the potential for a larger role in the Chiefs’ high-powered offense make him a player to watch in 2024. Will he finally break out? Only time will tell, but the potential reward outweighs the risk in the later rounds of your fantasy draft.
