According to a report, the Kansas City Chiefs have made a surprising move by releasing veteran running back La’Mical Perine.
As reported by Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston, the 26-year-old Perine, who spent the last two seasons with Kansas City and secured a pair of Super Bowl rings, has been released.
Originally drafted by the New York Jets in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Perine showcased promise in his rookie season with 232 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 64 carries, along with 11 receptions for 63 yards.
However, Perine’s role diminished in his sophomore season with the Chiefs, seeing just eight carries for 31 yards before his release ahead of the 2022 season. Despite stints on the practice squads of the Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins in 2022, he did not see game action for either team.
Perine joined the Chiefs’ practice squad during the 2022-23 postseason and contributed 77 rushing yards on 22 carries during the 2023 regular season. While he did not receive any carries in the playoffs, he earned a Super Bowl championship ring as a member of the roster.
Kansas City Chiefs Maintain Strong Running Back Depth
Despite Perine’s departure, the Chiefs boast solid depth in the running back position. Isiah Pacheco, with over 800 rushing yards in each of his first two NFL seasons, leads the backfield, supported by 2020 first-round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
Furthermore, the Chiefs have options beyond their top two backs, including former Arizona Cardinal Keaontay Ingram, who impressed during his collegiate career at Texas and USC.
Under the leadership of legendary head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs have historically featured strong running backs. However, with Patrick Mahomes leading the offense, the team’s success remains anchored in its dynamic passing game, regardless of changes in the backfield.
