Kansas City Chiefs Add Running Back Emari Demercado to Revamped Roster

Jason Dayee
Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado (31) runs after a catch against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at SoFi Stadium.

The Kansas City Chiefs are continuing their aggressive overhaul of the offensive backfield. Following the departure of Isiah Pacheco in free agency, the front office has moved quickly to restock the position. According to multiple reports, the Chiefs have agreed to terms with former Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado on a one-year contract. This move provides Kansas City with experienced depth and a versatile playmaker to pair with their latest marquee signing, former Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III.

A Complete Backfield Overhaul

The start of the new league year has seen significant turnover for the Chiefs. Isiah Pacheco, a fan favorite who provided a physical rushing style for the Kansas City offense over the past few years, departed for the Detroit Lions. The Lions prioritized Pacheco to bring an edge to their own locker room, leaving Kansas City with a glaring need. To fill that massive void, the Chiefs front office orchestrated a blockbuster deal for Kenneth Walker III, making a clear statement about their commitment to the ground game. Adding Demercado ensures that Walker will not have to shoulder the entire burden alone during the grueling regular season.

With veteran Kareem Hunt currently unsigned, Demercado steps into a prime position to compete for the primary backup role. He will enter training camp battling alongside second-year back Brashard Smith and developmental prospect ShunDerrick Powell. Kansas City head coach Andy Reid demands versatility from his running backs, and this newly constructed depth chart offers a compelling blend of breakaway speed, power and receiving ability.

Versatility and Production on the Field

Demercado entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of TCU in 2023. Over his three seasons in the desert, he carved out a steady role despite heavy competition. During his tenure with the Cardinals, he recorded 126 rushing attempts for 819 yards and three touchdowns. He also showcased reliable hands out of the backfield, catching 50 passes for 324 yards and an additional score.

In his most recent 2025 campaign, Demercado operated highly efficiently when given opportunities. He finished the season with 44 carries for 312 yards, which translated to a stellar 7.1 yards per rushing attempt. The Cardinals ultimately declined to offer him a restricted free agent tender, allowing Kansas City to secure his services without sacrificing any future compensatory draft picks. This signing represents a low-risk, high-reward investment for a franchise looking to maintain its championship pedigree in a highly competitive conference.

Overcoming Adversity in Arizona

The path to Kansas City was not entirely smooth for the 27-year-old running back. His final season in Arizona was marked by significant fluctuations and a highly publicized moment of adversity. Operating as the third-string option behind James Conner and Trey Benson, Demercado was thrust into a larger role following injuries to his teammates. In Week 5, he broke free for what appeared to be a 72-yard touchdown run but mistakenly dropped the ball just before crossing the goal line, resulting in a touchback. The Cardinals ended up losing the game, and the play drew heavy media scrutiny. The situation escalated when Arizona head coach Jonathan Gannon was seen yelling at Demercado on the sideline and was subsequently fined $100,000 by the league for appearing to shove the player.

Despite that immense public pressure, Demercado demonstrated remarkable resilience. He rebounded a few weeks later, logging 79 rushing yards in Week 9 and racking up 104 yards from scrimmage in Week 10. Just as he was finding his rhythm, a high ankle sprain sidelined him for three weeks. He managed to return late in the season, proving his toughness to his teammates and future suitors alike.

Special Teams Value and Future Outlook

Beyond his contributions on standard offensive downs, Demercado brings significant value to the crucial third phase of the game. He has consistently been a willing participant on special teams. During each of his three seasons in Arizona, he logged more than 50 snaps on special teams coverage units. He also has experience fielding kickoffs, returning six kicks during his professional career. For a roster constructed to compete deep into January, having a backup running back who can tackle on punts and block on kickoff returns is a tremendous asset.

The Chiefs have historically thrived by finding value in underappreciated players who have something to prove. Under the current offensive scheme, the screen game and quick passing attack often lean heavily on reliable running backs, a role Demercado is well equipped to fill. He now arrives in Kansas City with a fresh start, a clear path to playing time, and the opportunity to compete for a championship alongside Patrick Mahomes. If his resilience in Arizona is any indication, he possesses the exact mental makeup required to succeed in a demanding, high-stakes environment.

Originally from Staten Island, New York, I’ve spent most of my adult life in Arizona, where my passion for sports continues to grow. A proud University of Arizona graduate, I developed my journalism skills covering mostly football, basketball, and a few other sports for the Daily Wildcat and UATV-3.

Now covering the Kansas City Chiefs for Total Apex Sports, I aim to tell authentic stories that highlight the journeys, triumphs, and challenges of athletes today. I’m passionate about connecting with readers through honest and insightful coverage that reflects my deep love for the game.