The Kansas City Chiefs have decided to release running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who was a former first-round pick. The announcement was made by the team on Monday afternoon. Prior to the news, Edwards-Helaire expressed his gratitude to the Chiefs, the city of Kansas City, and the team’s fans on social media.
In a statement, Edwards-Helaire wrote, “Love ya KC! A family I didn’t know I needed, y’all made a Kid from Baton Rouge dreams come true! To Chiefs Kingdom, its all love and the support I had in troubling times will forever be unmatched from you guys! With love!”
Edwards-Helaire was chosen by the Chiefs as the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2020 draft. He had a successful rookie season in 2020, accumulating 1,100 yards from scrimmage and five touchdowns. However, his role and performance declined in the following seasons, leading to him losing his starting position in 2022 to Isiah Pacheco.
The running back has not played in the current season after being placed on the non-football illness list on September 2. He disclosed in July that he has been coping with PTSD, which has impacted his health and required hospital visits.
Edwards-Helaire shared that his PTSD stems from a shooting incident in 2018 during his time at LSU. He and a teammate were involved in a shooting that was deemed an act of self-defense by authorities. He expressed appreciation for the support from his teammates, including head coach Andy Reid, during his struggles.
Running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire credited tight end Travis Kelce for his assistance in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during an appearance on “The Pivot” podcast. Edwards-Helaire, who is 25 years old, refrained from commenting on his plans regarding his future in football during an interview on Monday.
