The Kansas City Chiefs will be without running back Kenneth Walker III when they face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 10. Walker sustained a groin injury late in the week and missed Friday’s practice. The team ruled him out on Saturday, with rookie Emmett Johnson set to start in his place.
Kansas City also elevated running back Nate Carter and wide receiver Jacob De Jesus from its practice squad for the game. Carter is the only other available running back behind Johnson, with Brashard Smith on injured reserve and Jayden Ott ruled out because of a hamstring injury. Johnson is expected to handle most of the carries, though Carter could also see playing time. Carter spent the 2025 season with Atlanta as an undrafted rookie free agent and appeared in seven games.
De Jesus joined the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent and spent training camp and the preseason with the team. Kansas City waived him during its final roster cuts in August and later brought him back to the practice squad. His speed could make him an option on punt or kickoff returns.
## Emmett Johnson Set for First NFL Start
Johnson will make the first start of his NFL career against Atlanta. As Walker’s backup this season, he has recorded 111 rushing yards, 237 receiving yards on 14 catches, and two total touchdowns.
Johnson was named Pepsi Rookie of the Week after his performance against the Denver Broncos in Week 8, when he recorded 128 receiving yards, 15 rushing yards, and a touchdown. He has made most of his impact as a receiver and has shown a mix of speed, power, and balance as a runner. Even after Walker returns, Johnson is likely to continue receiving significant playing time.
