In an era where mental health is gaining recognition as a vital component of overall well-being, the Kansas City Chiefs have demonstrated a profound commitment to one of their own. The team recently re-signed running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire to a one-year contract for his fifth season. Yet, his return to the field will be delayed after the Chiefs placed him on the non-football illness (NFI) list.

Edwards-Helaire’s absence stems from an ongoing battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which he has been dealing with since a life-altering incident in 2018. The Chiefs, in a remarkable gesture, will continue to pay his salary, offering financial and emotional support during his time off—a decision that speaks volumes about the organization’s priorities and compassion.

The Incident That Changed Everything

Edwards-Helaire, a standout at LSU before being drafted by the Chiefs in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, has faced personal challenges that few could imagine. His battle with PTSD began following a traumatic incident in 2018, where he and a companion were involved in an attempted robbery while selling an electronic device. In an effort to defend themselves, they shot the would-be robber, leaving Edwards-Helaire deeply shaken and forever changed. The emotional toll from that experience has followed him ever since, manifesting in various mental health struggles.

While Edwards-Helaire has remained relatively private about the specifics of his mental health journey, the Chiefs’ decision to place him on the NFI list—and their subsequent actions—reveal the seriousness of his condition. The NFI list is typically reserved for players dealing with injuries or illnesses not directly related to football activities. And although NFL teams are not obligated to pay players on the NFI list, the Chiefs have chosen to do so, a move that underscores their support for Edwards-Helaire’s recovery and well-being.

A Different Kind of Leadership: Prioritizing Mental Health

In a sport often associated with physical toughness and resilience, mental health is a topic that hasn’t always been given the attention it deserves. The NFL has made strides in recent years to prioritize the mental health of its players, but the stigma surrounding mental health struggles remains pervasive in many corners of the sports world. By continuing to pay Edwards-Helaire while he takes time to heal, the Chiefs are sending a powerful message: mental health matters, and players are more than just their on-field contributions.

For Edwards-Helaire, this time off offers a crucial opportunity to focus on his mental health without the added pressure of rushing back to the field. The Chiefs’ willingness to support him financially ensures that he can seek the help he needs without worrying about the financial ramifications of missing games. It’s a move that highlights the importance of compassion and care, showing that the Chiefs value their players as individuals, not just athletes.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire’s NFL Journey

Edwards-Helaire’s NFL career began with great promise when he was selected by the Chiefs in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. The young running back quickly made an impact, becoming a key part of Kansas City’s offense. Over the course of his career, he has amassed 480 carries for 2,065 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns in 56 career games, including playoff appearances. He was also part of two Super Bowl-winning rosters, helping the Chiefs secure their position as one of the NFL’s elite teams.

Despite his on-field success, Edwards-Helaire has faced his share of challenges. Injuries and inconsistencies have limited his playing time, and the arrival of fellow running back Isiah Pacheco has created even more competition in the backfield. Still, Edwards-Helaire’s talent and potential remain undeniable. His ability to contribute in both the running and passing game makes him a valuable asset to the Chiefs, even if his 2024 season debut will be delayed.

The Impact of the Chiefs’ Decision

The decision to pay Edwards-Helaire while he’s on the NFI list could have ripple effects across the league. It’s a rare move in a business-driven sport where player contracts are often strictly enforced. The Chiefs are under no obligation to continue paying Edwards-Helaire’s salary while he’s away from the team, but their decision to do so speaks to a broader culture of support within the organization. It’s not just about the money—it’s about showing empathy and providing reassurance during a time of personal crisis.

In professional sports, where performance and availability are often prioritized above all else, the Chiefs’ decision is refreshing. It highlights the importance of treating players as humans first and athletes second. Edwards-Helaire’s battle with PTSD is a reminder that mental health struggles can affect anyone, even elite athletes who seem to have it all. By standing by him during this difficult time, the Chiefs are setting an example for how organizations can support their players beyond the gridiron.

Looking Ahead: Edwards-Helaire’s Return to the Field

Though he’s currently sidelined, there’s hope that Edwards-Helaire could return to the field as early as Week 4 of the 2024 season, when the Chiefs face off against division rivals the Los Angeles Chargers. Whether or not he’s ready by then remains to be seen, but for now, the priority is his mental health and recovery. The Chiefs have made it clear that they’re willing to give him the time he needs, and Edwards-Helaire has the full support of the organization as he navigates this challenging period.

When he does return, Edwards-Helaire will be part of a dynamic Chiefs offense led by quarterback Patrick Mahomes, with targets like Travis Kelce and wide receivers Skyy Moore and Kadarius Toney providing plenty of firepower. While Pacheco has emerged as the team’s lead running back, Edwards-Helaire’s versatility could give the Chiefs yet another weapon in an already potent offense.

The NFL and Mental Health: A Changing Landscape

The NFL has made strides in recent years to address the mental health needs of its players, recognizing that the pressures of professional football can take a toll on even the most resilient individuals. Programs like the NFL Lifeline, which provides confidential support for players dealing with mental health issues, are a step in the right direction. However, there’s still much work to be done to remove the stigma associated with mental health struggles in the league.

Edwards-Helaire’s situation is a reminder that mental health challenges can arise from a variety of experiences, both on and off the field. His battle with PTSD, stemming from a traumatic event in his personal life, highlights the need for continued awareness and support for players dealing with similar issues. By providing financial support during his time off, the Chiefs are acknowledging that mental health is just as important as physical health, and they’re setting a standard for how teams can care for their players in times of need.

A Testament to Compassion and Understanding

The Kansas City Chiefs’ decision to continue paying Clyde Edwards-Helaire while he’s on the non-football illness list is more than just a gesture—it’s a testament to the organization’s commitment to its players as individuals. In a league where contracts and performance often dictate the terms of player treatment, the Chiefs have shown that they value Edwards-Helaire’s well-being above all else. As he continues his battle with PTSD, Edwards-Helaire can take comfort in knowing that his team is standing by him, offering not just financial support but also the emotional backing he needs to heal.

When Edwards-Helaire eventually returns to the field, he will do so with the knowledge that his team has his back in more ways than one. In a sport that often emphasizes toughness and grit, the Chiefs have shown that empathy and compassion are just as important. For Edwards-Helaire and the Chiefs, this moment is about more than football—it’s about recognizing the humanity that underpins the game we love.