It is tough to get noticed when you are second on the depth chart behind all-world Jamaal Charles, but Knile Davis made his mark as a rookie in 2013. The former Arkansas Razorback really shined in December, starting with a 108-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Denver. He rushed for 81 yards and two scores during the last game of the regular season when Charles sat out to rest for the playoffs. Davis also generated 100 total yards and a touchdown in Kansas City’s 45-44 playoff loss to Indianapolis after Charles was injured. Can Knile continue his upward progression or will he fall victim to a sophomore slump?
Fantasy Upside
The Kansas City backfield is not going to evolve into a committee featuring Charles and Davis. However, with Charles having gone through back-to-back years of heavy workloads, the Chiefs are hoping to lighten his load a bit. It is possible, albeit a bit of a long shot, that Davis could contribute enough to earn stand-alone flex value. At a minimum, the Kansas City power brokers have enough faith in him that he would be in line for a large role if something happens to Charles. As handcuffs go, he looks to be one of the better ones on the market.
Fantasy Downside
The changes along Kansas City’s offensive line could cause issues for every skill position player on the Chiefs roster. While the Chiefs believe in Davis, he has had fumbling issues in the past and his role could quickly diminish if those issues resurface. Rookie DeAnthony Thomas, who in theory will replace Dexter McCluster in the slot, may see more time in the backfield than McCluster did. The Chiefs have a rough schedule compared to last year.
Bottom Line
Anyone who selects Charles needs to snag Davis with a later pick. And even if you are not fortunate enough to land Charles, Davis is still worthy of late-round consideration. Should Knile end up as a starter at some point, he can deliver RB2 numbers.
