National Football League

Chiefs' Charles relishes chance to lay the lumber

Published Aug. 11, 2014 6:16 p.m. ET

foxsports

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) Jamaal Charles is known for his speed and skill. He'd like to be known for his ability to lay the lumber, too.

The Chiefs' Pro Bowl running back relishes the chance to drop a blitzing safety or linebacker, even though there are no fantasy points at stake for a block. He considers it one of the biggest reasons why he's become one of the few every-down running backs in the league.

In fact, Charles has even coined his own ''Jamaal Charles rule,'' whereby he promises to keep his defender out of his quarterback's face for 3 seconds. After that, they're on their own.

Chiefs offensive coordinator Doug Pederson said Monday that Charles has become a better blocker over the last year, and that's allowed him to take the next step toward greatness.