A former Kansas City Chiefs star who was cut just nine days before Christmas has quickly found a new home in the NFL. Clyde Edwards-Helaire, a Super Bowl champion, made his debut with the New Orleans Saints last Sunday, showcasing his resilience and determination to bounce back after being released.
Edwards-Helaire, who was drafted in 2020, played a pivotal role in the Chiefs’ success, contributing to their back-to-back Super Bowl victories. However, his journey took a challenging turn when Kansas City declined his fifth-year contract option for 2024, signaling a shift in his standing within the team. After being re-signed in the offseason, he was placed on the non-football illness list ahead of Week 1, which raised concerns about his future.
Struggles and Triumphs
The 25-year-old running back has faced significant personal challenges, including a battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Edwards-Helaire bravely opened up about his struggles, sharing, “Sometimes I’m admitted into the hospital, something like I can’t stop throwing up and I don’t know pretty much anything to stop it.” His honesty sheds light on the mental health challenges athletes often face, emphasizing the importance of support from teammates. He noted that players like Travis Kelce and Kadarius Toney have been attentive to his well-being, recognizing when he isn’t himself.
Despite these hurdles, Edwards-Helaire was activated to the Chiefs’ roster on October 15 but did not see any game action in 2024. His release on December 16 marked a significant moment in his career, but it also opened the door for new opportunities.
A New Chapter with the Saints
Just two days after his release, the New Orleans Saints picked up Edwards-Helaire on December 18, adding him to their practice squad. This move was particularly meaningful for him, as he hails from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and won a national championship with the LSU Tigers in 2019. The connection to his home state undoubtedly added to the excitement of joining the Saints.
Last week, Edwards-Helaire was given an unexpected chance to shine when Saints running back Alvin Kamara suffered an injury. Activated to the gameday roster, he stepped up in a crucial moment, leading the Saints backfield with five carries and seven total touches in a challenging 25-10 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders. This performance not only showcased his skills but also demonstrated his ability to adapt and contribute under pressure.
Looking Ahead
Edwards-Helaire’s journey is a testament to perseverance in the face of adversity. He stated, “It takes courage to talk about it and having PTSD and dealing with it once people kind of bring it up, it is not something that I’d always want to talk about.” His willingness to share his experiences can inspire others facing similar challenges, reminding them that they are not alone.
As he continues to navigate his career with the Saints, Edwards-Helaire remains focused on his personal growth and well-being. He expressed, “I feel like talking is a big thing, but it is just getting over that hump personally, being able to know that honestly, just everybody goes through things.” This perspective is invaluable, especially in a high-pressure environment like the NFL.
Week 18 Schedule Changes
In addition to Edwards-Helaire’s story, the NFL has announced the complete schedule for Week 18 of the regular season. This week promises to be thrilling, featuring a prime-time showdown between the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, with both teams vying for the NFC North title. The stakes couldn’t be higher, as the winner will secure the No. 1 seed for the playoffs while the loser will have to settle for a wild card spot.
The action begins with a Saturday doubleheader on ESPN and ABC, starting with the Baltimore Ravens facing off against the Cleveland Browns at 4:30 PM ET, followed by the Cincinnati Bengals taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers at 8 PM ET. Sunday will see eight games kicking off at 1 PM ET, with five more in the later afternoon slot, including the Kansas City Chiefs traveling to face the Denver Broncos.
As for Edwards-Helaire, this new chapter with the Saints marks a significant accomplishment after a tumultuous year. His journey is a reminder of the resilience required in professional sports, and fans are eager to see how he will continue to develop in New Orleans. With the support of his teammates and a renewed sense of purpose, Clyde Edwards-Helaire is ready to make his mark once again in the NFL.
