Cardinals View Chase Edmonds As Starting Caliber Running Back

I love Kenyan Drake for fantasy in 2020. After getting traded to the Cardinals midseason, Drake was one of the best running backs in the NFL. Drake was a pure workhorse after getting traded to Arizona. Where does that leave backup Chase Edmonds? The Cardinals made it clear that they view Edmonds as a starting caliber running back.

“We all feel like he’s a starting running back in this league, and he does, too,” Kingsbury said, via Kyle Odegard of the team website.

“We felt that confident in what Chase brings,” Kingsbury said. “When he had his opportunities, he shined, and he continues to shine. He can catch it, run it, block, play special teams, and he’s really bright football-wise. He’s everything you want.”

Two things can be true. Edmonds can be capable and not be a starting caliber running back. That’s my opinion anyway. In fact, I don’t need to tell you that. The Cardinals showed you what they think of Edmonds. After the Cardinals traded for Drake played a total of 15 snaps and received two carries.

That isn’t to say Edmonds isn’t talented. The former running back from Fordham had great efficiency numbers. 5.1 yards per carry is really good. The truth of the matter is, Edmonds is a serviceable backup that can catch the ball out of the backfield.

What will be more interesting is what happens after this season. Drake will be a free agent again once his transition tag runs out. Arizona drafted Eno Benjamin in the 7th round but we already know he stinks. It will be curious to see if Arizona lets Drake walk and Edmonds gets a substantial role in the offense in 2021.