The Kansas City Chiefs’ stars are well-known throughout the NFL, but the unsung heroes have been the players who have contributed to the franchise’s record 15 wins this season. One of the unsung heroes is running back Samaje Perine, who has contributed well beyond expectations.
Perine has served as the team’s reliable third-down running back and has stood out in multiple highlight plays this season. In the Week 17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Perine showed his chemistry with quarterback Patrick Mahomes, connecting on an exciting scramble lob pass.
“I was running. I get in that position sometimes where I fake that pitch. He got thrown down. I was going to run. I saw him. I was like if I can just pitch it to him, if he gets up, it will be right to him. Pretty funny,” said Mahomes. “He made a heck of a play, being on your back, coming around, making that catch. He’s been a great player for us the entire year. Pass protecting, running the football, catching the football. He’s been a big addition to this offense.”
Perine was a fourth-round selection in the 2017 NFL draft. He started his career with the Washington Commanders. Perine has traveled around the league, singing with four teams before joining Kansas City shortly before the start of the season. He finished the season with 92 yards rushing and 322 receiving, with two total touchdowns.
