2020 NFL Draft: Five teams that should target RB D’Andre Swift

Kansas City Chiefs

Swift would make an excellent addition to the Kansas City Chiefs for several reasons. For starters, Swift would be coming into an offense that is already stacked with playmakers. By joining a team that already has an elite offense, Swift would have the time and training it takes to acclimate himself into the NFL.

Even though Swift has shined in high school and college, the NFL is a totally different beast and that brings its own unique roadblocks to rookie running backs. When the admiration or ire of the fanbase isn’t directed at a rookie, players tend to have an overall easier time getting used to the stresses and demands of the NFL.

Next, he would be playing under an accomplished head coach in Andy Reid, who has coached in the NFL to one degree or another for decades. Reid is the ultimate veteran coach, and as such, would have a wealth of knowledge he could share with the young running back. I expect Reid would be able to get the most out of a talented rookie and find the best places in the game to use Swift that would not overly tax the young man.

The cherry on the top is, of course, Patrick Mahomes. Playing next to one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, Swift would have an excellent path to stardom and would have many opportunities to shine. Mahomes has one of the best quarterback IQ’s in the league today, along with one of the most accurate arms.

Swift would be able to play as a release valve for Mahomes, either as a check down option who can gain yards after the catch, or a reliable running back the team can count on for explosive plays.

Since the departure of Kareem Hunt, the Chiefs have needed an explosive playmaker at running back to help take the pressure off Mahomes. LeSean McCoy has been an excellent addition to the team this season, but McCoy is nearing retirement and is a free agent after this season. Chiefs running back Spencer Ware is also a free agent after this season, according to Spotrac.

The Chiefs have one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL this season and should be prioritizing defense in the 2020 NFL Draft. But watching their games this past season has shown a team that is in need of a serious running threat.

Considering Mahomes is eligible for a new contract this year, the team will need to start factoring in the cap when it comes to free agents they may bring in. Having an elite running back in the backfield that is cost-controlled for the next few seasons would help the Chiefs a lot as they try to make the most of their Super Bowl window.