After being placed on Injured Reserve in late 2023, Kansas City Chiefs running back Jerick McKinnon has returned to practice, which might provide him a lift heading into Super Bowl LVIII.

With running back Jerick McKinnon returned from injury, the Kansas City Chiefs could have an advantage in Super Bowl LVIII. He may be a covert weapon for the Chiefs after playing for their rivals, the San Francisco 49ers.

Just before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders on Christmas Eve, McKinnon suffered a groin injury that forced him to the injured list. During his absence, Clyde Edwards-Helaire filled in for him.

McKinnon’s season-long total of 21 carries for 60 yards and one touchdown was hampered by a string of injuries. However, he also demonstrated his abilities in the passing game by grabbing 25 passes for 192 yards and four touchdowns.

Although his return to training is encouraging, it’s still unclear if he’ll be ready to play in the Super Bowl. His status for the crucial game against the 49ers has not yet been verified by the team.

McKinnon has established himself as a vital component of the Chiefs’ offensive scheme during his tenure, mostly as a dynamic running back with pass-catching ability. Over the course of three seasons, he has gained 811 yards from throws and 413 yards from rushing.

McKinnon played a key role in the Chiefs’ 38-35 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVIII. He gained 15 yards by catching three receptions and 34 yards by running the ball four times.

During Kansas City’s last drive, there was one crucial moment. McKinnon gained nine yards, but he stopped just short of the goal line. With just eight seconds remaining, the Chiefs were able to kick the winning field goal after running out the clock. His astute action enabled the Chiefs to win the championship.

Following stops with the Minnesota Vikings and the 49ers, McKinnon joined the Chiefs in 2021. Even though he isn’t the primary starting running back, he has had a big influence. Seventh-round draft selection Isiah Pacheco has emerged as the team’s main option in the backfield after rushing for 7 touchdowns and 935 yards this year.

In an interview with local Kansas City media last season, Chiefs coach Andy Reid praised Pacheco and McKinnon, saying, “They’re both two completely different types of games,” and “You have a good balance there.”

Reid was quite complimentary about McKinnon as well: “You are playing nine years in the National Football League as a running back; those are dog years.” He has emerged in a really favorable manner and shape for the squad during the last few years with the Chiefs.”