Kansas City Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon stamped his name in the NFL annals during Sunday’s win over the Denver Broncos.
McKinnon has been on a hot streak as of late, but he’s been especially successful when it comes to putting up points in the passing game. As of the conclusion of Week 17, McKinnon has eight touchdown receptions on the season. With his two touchdown receptions on Sunday, McKinnon became the first running back in the Super Bowl era (since 1970) to record a touchdown reception in five consecutive games.
Speaking to reporters after the game, McKinnon gave all the credit to his teammates and the coaching staff for giving him the opportunity to have this success. Without them, he says it wouldn’t be possible.
“Opportunity, like I said last week,” McKinnon said. “It’s just the opportunity. Coach Reid, (Eric Bieniemy), the playcalling and then just Pat (Mahomes) finding me on those plays, of course.”
In addition to making his mark in the NFL record books, McKinnon also made some franchise history as well. McKinnon’s eight receiving touchdowns passed RB Jamaal Charles (7 TDs, 2013) and Kareem Hunt (7 TDs, 2018) for the most by a running back in a single season in franchise history.
Did McKinnon see this historical performance coming this season? Not quite. He does, however, feel that he’s put in the work to be ready for his moment — which is now.
“Would (I) have told you I saw it coming? No. But you put the work in,” McKinnon said. “You put the work in all season, so when your opportunity comes, you’re ready for the moment. And I’ve definitely done so.”
