Chiefs Sign RB Emari Demercado

One-year deal adds depth to Kansas City backfield

Mar. 13, 2026 at 12:53am

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The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to terms with free agent running back Emari Demercado on a one-year contract. Demercado, 27, spent the last three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, totaling 176 touches for 1,143 yards and 4 touchdowns. He will provide depth in the Chiefs' backfield after the departure of Isiah Pacheco in free agency.

Why it matters

The Chiefs needed to add running back depth after losing Pacheco and with Kareem Hunt still unsigned. Demercado gives them an experienced option to complement their other backs, Brashard Smith and ShunDerrick Powell.

The details

Demercado, a 27-year-old running back, recorded 312 rushing yards on 44 carries and 101 receiving yards on 13 catches with 1 touchdown in 13 games for the Cardinals in 2025. He will now join the Chiefs' backfield, which is looking to replace the production of Pacheco, who left in free agency.

  • The Chiefs agreed to terms with Demercado on Thursday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Emari Demercado

A 27-year-old running back who spent the last three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals.

Isiah Pacheco

A former Chiefs running back who left the team in free agency.

Kareem Hunt

A free agent running back who remains unsigned.

Brashard Smith

A running back on the Chiefs' roster.

ShunDerrick Powell

A running back on the Chiefs' roster.

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What they’re saying

“Kenneth Walker isn't the only running back the Chiefs are signing.”

— Ian Rapoport, NFL Media reporter

The takeaway

The Chiefs have added depth to their backfield by signing Emari Demercado, who brings experience and production from his time with the Cardinals. This move helps offset the loss of Isiah Pacheco and provides insurance in case Kareem Hunt remains unsigned.