The Kansas City Chiefs returned to the win column last weekend against the New York Jets, powered in large part by another standout performance from running back Kenneth Walker III. In eight games, Walker has become a central part of the Chiefs’ offense and emerged as a candidate for the NFL Offensive Player of the Year Award.
Walker appeared to have a favorable matchup against the Atlanta Falcons’ struggling run defense in Week 10. However, he was listed on Kansas City’s injury report Friday with a groin issue and did not practice, putting his availability for Sunday’s game in doubt. An NFL insider said the Chiefs planned to check on Walker over the next 24 hours, but there was “not a ton of optimism” about his status after he missed practice.
Through eight games, Walker has gained 872 yards and scored seven touchdowns on 159 carries. He has also caught 26 passes for 172 yards and four touchdowns, setting several career highs in the first half of the season. He has appeared in every game so far this year, though injuries have been a concern at other points in his career. Last season, he played in every game for the Seattle Seahawks during their championship run.
Walker’s absence could be significant for a Chiefs team whose passing attack has struggled to find its footing early in the season. His two lowest-output games came in Kansas City’s two losses, underscoring how important he has become to the offense. If he cannot play, fifth-round rookie Emmett Johnson is expected to take over as the starter. Johnson has shown promise, but the Chiefs would prefer to have Walker available. A decision on Walker’s status was expected within 24 hours, and he could miss his first game of the season if his condition does not improve.
