Kareem Hunt stands to benefit from Chiefs’ personnel changes in 2018

The Chiefs rookie led the NFL in rushing yards this season. His new offensive coordinator will have him in the rushing title conversation again in 2018.

Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Kareem Hunt had plenty to be proud about in his rookie season. Hunt led the NFL in rushing yards with 1,327 yards and eight touchdowns on 272 carries. He also caught 53 passes for 455 yards and three touchdowns in his rookie campaign.

The Chiefs workhorse was hot out of the gate, rushing over the defending Super Bowl Champion New England Patriots on their home turf for 246 total yards and three touchdowns in Week 1. The third-round pick had one turnover all season, on his first career carry.

But Hunt did hit a wall in the middle of his spectacular season. Beginning in Week 4, he had a nine-game scoring drought. Hunt also was held to 50 rushing yards in five games during the regular season. He rushed for 47 total yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs Wild Card loss to the Tennessee Titans.

Looking ahead to 2018

Unbelievably, things can get better for Hunt in 2018. The Chiefs promoted running backs coach Eric Bieniemy to their new offensive coordinator after Matt Nagy left for the Chicago Bears head coaching vacancy. The 86th pick may also have a new quarterback under center as rumors swirl about Alex Smith’s future with the Chiefs. Hunt should have another big year in 2018 regardless of the changes to the Chiefs offense.

Fantasy slant

Hunt was a fantasy stud in 2017. He will be one of the top 10 picks in most drafts next season and rightfully so. Beyond the success he had on the field this year, Hunt should get more opportunities in the Bieniemy offense next season.