The Chiefs began with a dominant 31-10 win over the Denver Broncos. Patrick Mahomes returned to action as expected, but it was the team’s offseason acquisition that stole the show.
Free agent running back Kenneth Walker III joined the Chiefs on a three-year, $43.05 million contract after four seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. He wasted no time making an impact in his Chiefs debut, finishing with 23 carries for 173 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, along with three receptions for 18 yards and another score. His most memorable play came early in the second half: after the Chiefs extended their lead to 14-7, Walker broke a fourth-and-1 run for 60 yards to the end zone, pushing the lead to 21-7.
Walker’s performance earned him AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors, as announced by the Chiefs.
This showing gave a glimpse of the level of impact the Chiefs expect from him. Last season, Kansas City ranked 25th in the league in rushing yards per game at 106.6 and has often been in the bottom half of the league in rushing since 2022. Walker’s addition provides the potential for a more dangerous ground attack.
The 25-year-old Walker was selected 41st overall in the 2022 NFL Draft by the Seahawks and quickly established himself as one of the league’s more dangerous runners. His final year in Seattle further elevated his reputation, which helped secure his contract with Kansas City.
Following the 2025 regular season, Walker posted 1,057 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. In three postseason games, he rushed for 313 yards and four touchdowns, earning Super Bowl MVP honors.
One game into his Chiefs tenure, it appears Walker has provided the dynamic running element the team had been seeking.
