Chiefs Looking Into Marlon Mack As Potential Trade Target

The Chiefs have placed running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire on injured reserve, meaning that Kansas City will be without its top rusher for at least three weeks. With only Darrel Williams and Jerick McKinnon on the active roster, the Chiefs are now showing interest in one running back who's currently on the trade market.

That would be Colts tail back Marlon Mack, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.

Mack, 25, is tucked behind Jonathan Taylor and Nyheim Hines on the Indianapolis depth chart, and his role in 2021 has been almost non-existent. Mack was once thought of as one of the up and coming running backs in the NFL before he suffered a torn Achilles last season. Before that, Mack rushed for 1,091 yards on 4.4 yards per carry in just 12 starts in 2019.

The fit is obvious for the Chiefs, who could use a natural runner in Edwards-Helaire's absence. Williams has been used as the goal line back this season but doesn't have much experience as a No. 1 back. Mack does and could be a huge lift to Kansas City's sputtering offense.

The Chiefs have slipped to 2-3 on the season, mainly because they have the second-worst defense in the NFL, allowing 437.4 yards per game. They haven't been able to stop a nosebleed, which puts more pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes to carry the load. Now without their top rusher, the Chiefs desperately need someone besides receiver Tyreek Hill and tight end Travis Kelce to step up.

Should the Chiefs acquire Mack, it'll be a big opportunity for the 2017 4th round pick to regain some of his value.