The Kansas City Chiefs are planning to rest a number of starters against the Los Angeles Chargers today.
The backfield is an area where they could look quite different. According to a new report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Darwin Thompson is expected to get the bulk of the carries in Week 17. It’s possible that Thompson could even get the start for the Chiefs.
Thompson, a former sixth-round draft pick in 2019, only has 13 carries on the season so far. His single-game high in carries came back against the Broncos in Week 13 of 2019 with 11 carries for 44 yards and a touchdown. This is going to be a chance for the seldom-used back to prove that he’s worthy of more opportunities within the Kansas City offense.
From @NFLGameDay: The #Chiefs are resting QB Patrick Mahomes and others today vs. the #Chargers with everything locked up. pic.twitter.com/rm30KIgvIM
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2021
As for who will spell Thompson when he’s in need of a rest, many expected Darrel Williams to be that guy, but it could actually be Le’Veon Bell. According to Rapoport, Bell will dress but is expected to play very little if at all.
#Chiefs RB Le’Veon Bell (knee) is expected to dress vs. the #Chargers, but if he plays it’ll be very little, source said. RB Darwin Thompson is slated to get the bulk of the carries.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 3, 2021
If the Chiefs wanted to avoid using Bell they have other options as well. Williams is, of course, one option. Fullback Anthony Sherman also could be in line for some carries and catches on Sunday too.
