Kansas City Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, a key player on the team, is currently facing a tough battle with PTSD and mental health struggles, leading to his placement on the NFI list at the start of the season. This means he will not be able to play for the first four weeks, but despite this setback, the Chiefs have chosen to continue paying his salary and offer their full support to him during this challenging time.
One of his teammates, Chris Jones, was quick to show his appreciation for the organization’s gesture, taking to social media to commend the Chiefs for their support. Jones wrote, “Classy move….” in a post that indicated his solidarity with the team’s decision to stand by Edwards-Helaire during his time away from the field.
Edwards-Helaire, who is 25 years old, has been a part of the Chiefs for five seasons, having been drafted in the first round in 2020. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, quickly becoming the team’s primary running back. However, his role has decreased over the years, with his performance in the 2023 season hitting career lows in terms of rushing attempts, yards gained, and touchdowns scored. This decline led to him losing the starting position to Isiah Pacheco, who has been excelling on the field over the past two seasons.
As Edwards-Helaire focuses on his mental health and well-being, his teammates and the Chiefs organization continue to show their support and understanding, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health issues in professional sports. This situation serves as a reminder that athletes, no matter how successful, are not immune to struggles off the field, and it is essential for teams to provide the necessary resources and support for their players in times of need.