When running back left the University of Texas early, some fans screamed that he was making a big mistake. While the Longhorns could have certainly used him in the backfield last season, Charles’ NFL career is already going strong. After a promising rookie season even with limited touches, Kansas City Chiefs coaches and NFL media experts both think he could be headed for breakout season. The Football Outsiders think Charles is a good fit for the new KC offense:
In 2008, running back Jamaal Charles had an excellent rookie season for the Chiefs. Charles averaged 5.3 yards per carry (although he had just 67 carries) and caught 27 passes for more than 10 yards per reception. Those excellent numbers aren’t the only reason Charles is a good bet for 2009. Compared to backfield partner Larry Johnson, Charles has a style that’s a much better fit for the offense of new Chiefs coach Todd Haley. Charles is a speed demon who patiently looks for running lanes instead of lowering his shoulder and pushing the pile, and that’s a style that fits perfectly with a shotgun attack designed to spread out defenses and take linebackers off the field with nickel and dime coverages.
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