Kansas City’s 2025 season highlighted a weak rushing attack, prompting head coach Andy Reid to overhaul the coaching staff. The most notable addition is former All-Pro running back DeMarco Murray, who returns to the pros as the Chiefs’ new running backs coach after a successful college stint with the Arizona Wildcats and Oklahoma Sooners.
Murray, a three-time Pro Bowler who led the NFL in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns in 2014, brings a wealth of experience to the Chiefs’ backfield room. While his playing career ended in 2017, he has built a solid reputation as a coach, which Reid cited as a key strength in bringing him to Kansas City.
Reid expressed optimism about Murray’s impact, emphasizing the value of his teaching approach and professional background. The move is part of a broader effort to revitalize Kansas City’s ground game, which struggled to command respect from defenses alongside the passing threat in recent seasons.
The Chiefs are widely expected to add further backfield personnel this offseason, but Murray’s presence signals a serious focus on developing the running game. As Kansas City consumers gear up for the 2026 season, the expectation is that Murray will help re-energize the rushing attack and expand the team’s offensive versatility.
In sum, the hiring of DeMarco Murray reflects Andy Reid’s plan to strengthen the Chiefs’ rushing efficiency, leveraging Murray’s recent coaching success and firsthand NFL experience to revive a ground game that has lagged in recent campaigns.