Elijah Mitchell, former 49ers RB that just recently signed to the Kansas City Chiefs. This primarily tactical addition provides some serious, much-needed depth on the Ravens backfield roster. Currently, at 26 years old, Mitchell measures in at 5-foot-10 and 200 pounds. His combination of size, speed and route-running make him an intriguing option and different from the Chiefs’ current top backs—Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco. The Chiefs are banking on his speed and versatility to put a new dynamic to their already electrifying offensive scheme.
Injuries have been the story of Mitchell’s career. Most recently, a hamstring injury prevented him from playing at all during the 2024 season. He’s been long gone from the field since 2023. As shown in his rookie year of 2021, where he had 963 yards rushing and five touchdowns, it showed what he can do. Despite the encouraging numbers, his career fell off a cliff in subsequent years. He was only able to accrue 560 yards and four touchdowns in 16 games, a large factor of which was due to consistent injuries.
Mitchell certainly proved to be an electrifying playmaker in San Francisco at times. Since his dynamic rookie year he hasn’t been able to keep up that consistent prowess.
“He’s got a little quickness and speed,” – Coach Andy Reid
Mitchell’s speed is still one of his most impressive traits. He wowed everyone with a 4.38 second 40-yard dash time at the 2021 NFL Draft. Even better, this burst just amplifies the opportunity he has to be a huge dynamic playmaker. According to Coach Andy Reid, this speed adds an extra element to Mitchell’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield. This combination continues to raise his value to the squad even more.
As Mitchell is getting ready to join the Chiefs, he’s quite positive about his recovery and getting back in playing shape. He said he’s healthy and expects to be back at full strength when offseason practices start in May.
“I just call it adding to the room,” – Elijah Mitchell
Mitchell was adamant about having the ability to prepare his body, focus eyes entirely on the next season without being in a disadvantaged position. His clear passion for making Kansas City great stands out. It’s not just bravado—he genuinely thinks that him being there will unlock opportunities for him and the whole goddamn squad.
“Just being able to actually do it in KC, it’s going to open up a lot of things, not just for me but for the team. It’s going to be incredible.” – Elijah Mitchell
The Chiefs’ running back room has changed significantly this offseason with the departure of Samaje Perine. Mitchell, with his more dynamic playmaking style, provides a creative new weapon to head coach Reid’s offensive wizardry. His ability to contribute both in rushing and receiving roles could prove crucial for the Chiefs as they look to build on their recent successes.
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