Superstar rusher Jamaal Charles injured his knee in week two of last season and was not able to play again in the campaign, but the Chiefs now have a big-name combination with Hillis joining the backfield.

Hillis came from relative obscurity to "Madden NFL 12" cover-boy after a fantastic season with Cleveland when he ran for 1,177 yards and nine scores in the 2010 season - adding 477 yards and two scores in the air.

The famous 'Madden curse' may have struck last year though, with Hillis now looking to start fresh with the Chiefs.

Terms have not yet been disclosed but it is believed Hillis will be given $3 million for one year in Kansas City.

"Appreciate all my fans in Cleveland for the support given to me in my time there," Hillis wrote on Twitter. "Can't wait to get back on the field and go to work in KC."

If back to his best, Hillis could form a potent rushing attack alongside Charles, a much more elusive runner and more of a threat catching passes out of the backfield.

Hillis has a rampaging go-forward style of running which can lead to injuries, but with Charles there to share the load then the Chiefs will hope both men can stay healthy.

Kansas City also needed another running back as veteran Thomas Jones was allowed to become a free agent along with Jackie Battle and full-back Le'Ron McLain - who has agreed to join divisional rivals San Diego.