The Chiefs’ running back did not have an offseason with a team last year.
Kareem Hunt is back with the Kansas City Chiefs — this time with a full offseason ahead of him. After rejoining the team midseason in 2024, the Pro Bowl running back is making the most of his first full offseason. The former third-round pick, who led the NFL in rushing as a rookie with Kansas City in 2017, is embracing the chance to get back to football on his terms.
“It feels good to now get this spring work in and tune up, (and) get ready for a training camp,” Hunt said during Thursday’s media.
The full offseason workload is something he lacked last year, and he admits it made a big difference.
“It’s going to definitely help me get my body in shape, (and) get used to hitting and grinding out those long, tough days in training camp. That’s what helps you get through the season.”
When asked if he’s looking forward to camp, Hunt laughed: “I mean, yeah and no. I like having a summer, but it’s all good. I mean, it’s football.”
Hunt said he returned to Kansas City because “there’s some unfinished business,” and spoke fondly of the team.
“I love the guys here, I love the staff and (there are) good people all around,” Hunt reflected.
During OTAs, there’s not much physical action for running backs, so Hunt is using the time to stay in shape and sharpen his skills.
“Honestly (I) use it just running routes and getting good cardio and exercise and stay in the shape,” he said when asked how he uses this time in the offseason.
“We still set up for the run, but we don’t do anything like that, but it’ll come soon in training camp.”
Reflecting on how much more conditioned he’ll be for Week 1 compared to last season, when he had to adjust quickly after joining midyear, Hunt was confident in his preparedness.
“I’m definitely going to be able to come in guns blazing,” he said assuredly. “I’m excited that I get to get my legs underneath me and actually do football stuff and work drills and go against defensive guys and stuff like that, so that just prepared me more instead of just coming (in), not being tackled or touched.”