Former Texas A&M running back EJ Smith is signing with the Chiefs after going undrafted, giving Kansas City a versatile depth option.
Texas A&M running back EJ Smith didn’t hear his name called in the 2026 NFL Draft, but he didn’t have to wait long for his NFL opportunity.
Smith is signing with the Kansas City Chiefs as an undrafted free agent, giving one of the NFL’s top offenses another versatile backfield option.
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The former Aggies running back brings pedigree, patience and pass-catching ability after college stops at Stanford and Texas A&M.
Smith, the son of Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith, began his career at Stanford and flashed real upside when healthy.
During his first season as a starter with the Cardinal, he averaged 103 rushing yards and 31.5 receiving yards per game before an injury ended his year after two games. That setback gave him another redshirt season and extended his college career.
After earning his degree from Stanford, Smith transferred to Texas A&M for his final two seasons. His role in College Station wasn’t huge, mostly because the Aggies had Le’Veon Moss and Rueben Owens ahead of him, but Smith still found ways to contribute.
He rushed for 207 yards in 2024 and followed with 205 more in 2025 despite fewer carries. Across his time at Texas A&M, Smith averaged 4.7 yards per carry and scored four touchdowns.
For Kansas City, this is a low-risk addition with intriguing upside. Smith has experience in multiple offensive systems, can help as a receiver out of the backfield and has shown he can stay ready even without a heavy workload.
Now the challenge is turning that versatility into a roster spot. With the Chiefs, Smith will get a chance to prove he’s more than a famous football name. He’s an experienced, educated back who still has something to show at the next level.
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