Chiefs RB Jamaal Charles: A View From the Stands

For the fifth installment of this series, it's time to take a look at one of the best players in the National Football League. Jamaal Charleshas been tearing up defenses the past two seasons, and looks primed to keep the train rolling. However, appearances can be deceiving. Are they in this case?

Charles is coming off one of the most spectacular seasons for a running back in NFL history. We all know the gaudy statistics: 1,467 yards and a record-tying 6.4 YPC. The numbers Charles put up in Kansas City last year are nothing short of Hall-of-Fame worthy. Add in that Charles can catch the ball and break a game open with his sprinter speed, and you have yourself an epic talent. When watching most teams in the NFL the big plays usually come from the passing game. When you watch the Chiefs, any run with #25 has the potential to be a game-changer.

Of course, running backs don't always last long, either due to wear and tear. How often is it that brilliance is fleeting in these men, gone before it was supposed to be? Fans expect greatness to consistently weave it's way through time and injuries but it seldom does. Charles is only 200 pounds, so you have to wonder if durability will be an issue going forward. While I'm not big on his size being an issue, we all know how one knee, hip, or ankle injury can steal away the gifts or legends. Especially those who line up behind the quarterback.

So the question is, can Jamaal Charles repeat his historic season of 2010?

My Verdict: He will not run for 6.4 YPC again, but he will touch the ball more and eclipse the 1,500 yard mark.

Thomas Jones wore down quite a bit towards the end of the season, and I see the gas light coming on. Jackie Battle is nice in short yardage situations, but he certainly won't be stealing a lot of time from Charles. It will be interesting to see how McCluster is used as a running back, but again I can't see him getting many carries per game. The load will be on Charles' shoulders this season more than ever.

The addition of Jonathan Baldwin definitely helps Charles. If Baldwin is productive, Kansas City will see a decrease in eight man fronts, opening up running lanes and having lesser collisions with defensive backs instead of linebackers. Of course, this also means opportunities at longer runs. He also will get his touches in the passing game with Cassel checking down often to his weapon in the backfield.

With the Chiefs being on national television at least three times this season, people (including media) across the country will recognize Charles as the best running back in football. Adrian Peterson and Chris Johnson are immense talents but none of them have the overall package that Charles brings to the table.

In 2011, Jamaal Charles will bring the fans at raucous Arrowhead Stadium to their feet in front of a national audience. People watching at home won't be sitting either.