The one thing Clyde Edwards-Helaire has to do to play as a rookie

Former LSU football running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire is hoping to make a big impact as a rookie in 2020.

The Kansas City Chiefs selected former LSU football running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire with the final pick of the first round in the 2020 NFL Draft for one very specific reason.

He’s a perfect fit for Andy Reid’s offense.

Edwards-Helaire proved to be a do-it-all running back during his time at LSU.

The Baton Rouge native rushed for 1,414 yards as a junior in 2019. He also added 55 receptions for 453 yards, which is what makes him particularly dangerous.

There’s never been any doubt that Edwards-Helaire can be an offensive monster in the NFL — he absolutely has the talent to be a Pro-Bowl caliber running back.

But there’s one specific area where he needs to improve to ensure he sees the field consistently as a rookie.

The area where Clyde Edwards-Helaire needs to improve

The one knock on Edwards-Helaire coming out of college was his ability to pass protect. He wasn’t always good in that area.

But he understands that. And he’s working to become a better blocker. Because otherwise, Edwards-Helaire won’t see the field much.

“If you don’t protect that damn quarterback, you can’t play,” said Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy this week (via USA TODAY).

Fortunately for the former LSU standout, he’s improving as a blocker.

“He gets himself in [a] good position with his quickness and his leverage and does a good job in protection,” said Kansas City head coach Andy Reid earlier this month when discussing Edwards-Helaire.

I don’t think there’s any doubt that Edwards-Helaire is going to do whatever it takes to help his team win. He’s a tireless worker and I’m sure we’ll see the results of his hard work on Sundays this fall for the Chiefs.