The Chiefs have signed free agent running back Carlos Hyde to a one-year contract.
Hyde was in Kansas City for a free agent visit on Saturday. This came following his release from the Jaguars on Friday. For the Chiefs this is a nice little jump on free agency that fills a depth need at running back.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the contract is worth under $3 million in total value. It’s unclear how much of the money is guaranteed or will count against the salary cap, but it seems like a low dollar investment.
Hyde spent the 2018 season with the Browns and the Jaguars. He was still recovering from an MCL injury suffered in 2017, and he finished the year with 571 yards and five touchdowns on 172 carries. In addition to carrying the ball, Hyde brings experience as a pass protector. He was much better catching the ball during his time with the 49ers, so hopefully he can recapture some of that skill in the Chiefs offense under Andy Reid.
Keep in mind that this signing doesn’t rule out the Chiefs adding more running backs through free agency, which begins on Wednesday, or the draft. The Chiefs went into training camp in 2018 with six running backs under contract, and four made the team.
