The Kansas City Chiefs had signed a contract with Le’Veon Bell earlier this season in the hope that he could get some production going when starter Clyde Edwards-Helaire needed some rest.
Bell’s role could be more than that after Edwards-Helaire was helped off the field with what the Chiefs called injuries to his hip and leg in their 32-29 win over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.
Coach Andy Reid said in the post-game press conference that X-rays were negative and it was unclear how much time Edwards-Helaire would miss.
Edwards-Helaire was hunched back while tackled after a four-meter run in the fourth quarter.
“It was an ugly way to be handled,” Bell said.
Bell had his busiest – and most prolific – game since joining the Chiefs. He contributed 15 times for 62 yards and scored a 12-yard touchdown after taking an option pitch from quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Mahomes had crossed the line of scrimmage before throwing to Bell.
“Knowing Pat, I knew he would throw the ball anywhere on the field,” Bell said. “That play was a really fun play. I don’t think I’ve ever had a play like that. I know I’ve probably never had an easier touchdown in the NFL.”
Bell’s play was part of a hasty 179-meter performance by the Chiefs, their best since a week 6 win over the Buffalo Bills.
The Chiefs (13-1) may need to rely on Bell if they want to repeat that kind of hasty production anytime soon.
“He’s been a great asset,” said Mahomes. “He’s done plays when he was in the football game. Of course we hope Clyde comes back soon, but I think we have good guys in that running room who will come up and really embrace that role.”