The 2022 season for Jerick McKinnon was a resurgence in productivity for his career. The 30-year-old became more than just a third-down running back, becoming an essential part of the offense as the season progressed.
McKinnon has accumulated an impressive 56 receptions for 512 yards and nine touchdowns, shattering running back records in the process. He finished the season with six consecutive games with a touchdown reception joining NFL legend Marshall Faulk and Austin Ekeler of the Los Angeles Chargers as the only running backs in the last 30 years to catch at least eight touchdowns in a season. During the stretch, McKinnon was recently named AFC Offensive Player of the Month and had the opportunity to speak with reporters about the honor after Tuesday’s practice.
“I landed back here, and I had a whole bunch of text messages,” said McKinnon. “Guys texting me, coaches – former coaches – texting me. So that’s kind of how I found out. But, it’s just a blessing just to have recognition like that after you put in so much work. It’s definitely a blessing.”
McKinnon had over 400 total yards during the month. He recorded a receiving touchdown in each of those last six games, becoming the sixth Chiefs running back to earn NFL monthly honors during their career.
“It’s great, but like I said before, I couldn’t do it without any of my teammates, coaches, supporting staff and stuff like that,” said McKinnon. “So, it’s a collective effort, but like I said, it’s a blessing to definitely have that recognition.”
McKinnon has notably served as a mentor to the younger offensive players this season, passing down his experience to benefit the team. The veteran leadership and production on the field gave way to his being voted team captain for the postseason.
“That’s probably my favorite accolade of late just because it’s voted by teammates,” said McKinnon. “So it just lets me know what my teammates think of me. You know, my characteristics what I bring to the team, and that, you know, everybody somewhat looks up to me voting me team captain, so you know, I definitely appreciate that one, but that’s probably the one that I love and sticks out the most to me.”
The Chiefs will rely on McKinnon throughout the postseason as the team faces its first test on Saturday against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The chemistry with Patrick Mahomes will be a target for the opposition, especially with all the historical success.
