Kenneth Walker burst onto the scene in his Kansas City Chiefs debut on Monday night, powering his team to a 31-10 win over the Denver Broncos with 173 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown. His most notable play was a 60-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, reaching a top speed of 21.21 MPH. That long sprint marked the highest run by a Chiefs back since 2019.
NFL rushing yards leaders after Week 1
– 1. Kenneth Walker — 173
– 2. Jahmyr Gibbs — 156
– 3. Derrick Henry — 144
– 4. D’Andre Swift — 124
– 5. Ashton Jeanty — 102
– 6. Breece Hall — 102
– 7. Kyle Monangai — 100
– 8. Jonathan Taylor — 98
– 9. Saquon Barkley — 83
– 10. Bijan Robinson — 83
Walker’s night was especially significant given the Chiefs’ limited aerial production. The Broncos’ defense, which ranked highly against the run last season, posed a tough challenge, making Walker’s workload and efficiency even more notable. After years with limited and inconsistent usage, Walker appeared to secure a steady role in Kansas City by logging 26 touches on opening night.
The Bears’ rushing attack, featuring D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai, also made a strong statement. In Week 1, Chicago exploded for 59 points and accumulated 291 rushing yards, with Swift and Monangai combining for 224 yards. Both backs topped the century mark, and Monangai delivered a long 61-yard scoring run.
Swift and Monangai each produced big plays, and the Bears tied a mark for most rushing touchdowns in a season-opening game with six. That achievement placed them alongside some of the league’s historic opening-day performances.
Derrick Henry continued to defy age, adding big numbers well into his 30s, underscoring that he remains a force to be reckoned with whenever he touches the field.
Among the week’s leading rushers, Jahmyr Gibbs led all players in carries with 29, a heavy workload by modern standards. The Lions’ standout is positioned for another monster season as the year progresses.
Overall, Week 1 delivered a compelling mix of veteran excellence and breakout performances, with Walker’s explosive debut in Kansas City and the Bears’ relentless ground attack setting the tone for an action-packed season.