Jamaal Charles’ comeback bid in 2016 fell short when knee problems flared up, caused him to miss all but three games and ultimately resulted in another surgery following his 2015 ACL injury.
Once among the NFL’s most dangerous players, his status heading into 2017 is in flux. This is especially true considering the running back is set to earn almost $6.2 million this season including roster and workout bonuses.
Still, when discussing Charles’ future, Chiefs general manager John Dorsey had some good news on this front for Charles and his fans.
Dorse on 25: "He's working like the dickens to get himself ready for '17. We'll see what happens in Mar. but right now I see him as a Chief"
— RIP Terez A. Paylor (@TerezPaylor) February 9, 2017
Obviously, there is some ambiguity to this statement. In no way is Dorsey saying Charles is going to be with the Chiefs this upcoming season. The team’s salary cap situation is a tricky beast, unlike many other teams that are flush with cash. If Charles isn’t looking phenomenal in March when the new league year starts, then nobody should be surprised if he’s released to clear cap space.
Still, given his outstanding track record of production before the ACL injury that derailed his career — 7,260 yards and 43 touchdowns on the ground, 2,457 yards and 20 touchdowns as a receiver — one has to believe the Chiefs hope he returns to his former self.