Chiefs' Hunt gushes about idol Lynch, Smith's standout season

Kansas City Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt has taken the league by storm during his rookie year, but he remains a bit starstruck.

Hunt, selected in the third round of the 2017 draft, leads the NFL with 717 rushing yards and has propelled the Chiefs to a 5-2 record thus far.

Although Hunt is quickly forging a national profile for himself, he's still relatable to the common man. Hunt spoke to Daniel Rapaport of Sports Illustrated to discuss quarterback Alex Smith's breakout year, and one player he particularly admires.

"Marshawn Lynch," Hunt responded when asked which player he holds in the highest regard. "I got to talk to him before the game last week. Always looked up to him. That's Beast Mode."

The Oakland Raiders running back was suspended for running onto the field and making contact with an official during that game.

Hunt is one major component of the Chiefs' strong start, with Smith making headlines as well. The quarterback has forged his way into the MVP conversation, and the running back raved about his teammate.

"He is such a great leader. The whole team is behind Alex. Our defense is behind Alex. He can do it all; he can run, he can throw, he throws a great deep ball. And he has a great deal of confidence right now, and it shows."

Hunt seems to be going about things the right way in his rookie year, demonstrating a certain humility as he looks to steer the Chiefs to a playoff bye in the second half of the year.