Running Back 30 – Jerick McKinnon KC
Jerick McKinnon is back in the fold with Kansas City and should have another productive season. There should be an improvement from 2nd year teammate Pacheco,but the running backs (RB) will likely split the snaps in 2023. Pacheco is also coming off of surgery to his hand, which allowed for McKinnon to have more practice reps with the ‘ones’. McKinnon could also see more snaps lined up in the slot, or in the ‘wing-T’ position. It likely has another name in Head Coach Andy Reid’s offense, but it’s roughly one to two yards away from the offensive tackle or tight end, and McKinnon (as well as others) see snaps at that position. This is important because Patrick Mahomes feels comfortable and trust McKinnon out of the backfield, and it is a huge plus to be trusted by arguably the best player in the game. This goes beyond the safety value ‘check-down’ of most running backs, Coach Reid draws plays for McKinnon, and he is often times option two or three of the play. With no real WR1 in Kansas City, McKinnon could improve on his career numbers from last year.
McKinnon 2022 rushing stats were: 291 yards on 71 attempts and 1 touchdown… not impressive. His receiving stats: 71 targets, 56 receptions, 512 yards, and 9 touchdowns, all career highs. He did all of this with only 128 touches and ZERO games started! If his volume maintains or improves he could have his best NFL season, and is well worth a snag at his ADP between 114-140. Don’t let age scare you off on what could be a league winner.

Linebacker 30 – Alex Anzalone
Anzalone is coming off of his best statistical season, and finished linebacker (LB) 32 last year. He played 1,020 snaps and had over 125 combined tackles for the season. In addition, he had 1.5 sacks, 7 QB hits,1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, 1 interception, 6 passes defended, and 7 tackles for loss. That is a well-rounded LB capable of doing whatever is asked of him, but his strength is his preparation and tackling. He started all 17 games last season, and barring injury the defensive captain will start all 17 again this season. The opportunity should be there and improvement on all of his statistics is more than possible.
Most IDP heads are gushing at Anzalone’s teammate, rookie LB Jack Campbell, and rightfully so, he looks to be every bit as advertised. However, Anzalone will likely not leave the field, and be a true three-down LB. Anzalone is also very familiar with Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn, and trusted in communication. Buy the bargain that is Alex Anzalone and enjoy having a plug and play LB3/Flex for the season.

Thank you for reading Mano y Mano. Check in tomorrow for RB & LB #29.
Bet Smart, Be Lucky – Iggy

*Stats come from FantasyPros, Pro Football Reference, Sleeper, and NFL/Next Gen.
*Rankings are based on .5 PPR format and FF7s.