Fantasy Upside
Jerick McKinnon sort of came out of nowhere last season to become a valuable fantasy asset. He was OK to start the season, averaging 34.9 yards with one touchdown in the eight games where Clyde Edwards-Helaire played at least 10 snaps. But in the nine games after, McKinnon averaged 5.1 receptions per game with an average of 58.3 scrimmage yards and nine total touchdowns. From Week 9 on, he finished as the fantasy RB7. McKinnon should maintain a similar role heading into 2023. He could even see more targets given the Chiefs’ inexperience at the wide receiver position.
Fantasy Downside
McKinnon offers nearly no value as an actual runner, averaging just 17.1 rush yards per game with one score on the ground. He also scored nine of his 10 touchdowns on the season in the final six games of the season, a pace that will be nearly impossible to replicate in 2023. McKinnon’s uptick in production also came after CEH was injured. CEH is healthy now and could threaten some touches in the backfield. There is also some preseason hype for undrafted rookie running back Deneric Prince.
2023 Bottom Line
McKinnon should be viewed as a PPR-friendly back heading into 2023. The type of back who will more likely than not finish with less than 10 rushing yards each game, but routinely see at least five targets. His touchdown spree will likely settle way down, which is the reason he became such a hot commodity last season. But McKinnon should see enough production to be a low-end RB2 or a strong RB3 option in PPR leagues. He should be viewed around the RB30 range.