Hall.
Getty
Breece Hall.
The Kansas City Chiefs unraveled down the final stretch of the NFL season as they missed the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade, but one deficiency was glaring even before their late-season collapse — the running game.
The Chiefs struggled all season in establishing a consistent ground game, which put increasing pressure on Patrick Mahomes and the passing attack. Many insiders believe the backfield will be the biggest target for the offseason, with the Chiefs potentially making a run at a talented running back who is about to hit the open market.
Chiefs Could Target Breece Hall in Free Agency
Reporter Jared Feinberg of SI.com broke down the top three running back targets for the Chiefs, putting New York Jets back Breece Hall on the list. Feinberg wrote that Hall could be a good fit for the Chiefs, where he might finally be able to reach his full potential.
“Hall has the obvious talent to be one of the best players at his position in the right system,” Feinberg wrote. “Injuries or the lack of consistency within the Jets’ offense have hurt his potential, and there is a real chance their best player could be looking for a new home in 2026. Hall likely wants to see wins at a high rate, and the Chiefs would provide that in theory, giving their offense and Patrick Mahomes an outstanding runner, who would quickly become a top playmaker on the roster.”
Hall saw steady production in his last three seasons with the Jets, topping the 1,000-yard plateau in 2025 despite an offense that largely struggled. He finished his four-year tenure with 3,398 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns.
Hall could also become a strong target for Mahomes out of the backfield. Hall made 188 receptions for 1,642 yards and nine receiving touchdowns during his time with the Jets.
Chiefs Could Also Target Super Bowl Champion
Feinberg suggested the Chiefs could also target Kenneth Walker III, who is set to hit free agency after earning Super Bowl MVP with the Seattle Seahawks.
“Could the Chiefs be that team to land Walker?” Feinberg wrote. “He is the type of player who could transform their run game alongside Mahomes in the backfield, providing the offense with an exceptional runner and a player who can offer value as a pass-catcher in the slip screen game. This would be a dream signing for Kansas City if they can pull it off.”
But the Chiefs will also face a salary cap crunch this offseason, and Feinberg suggested that Walker’s strong performance in the Super Bowl could boost his pending contract.
The Chiefs will face some other big decisions, including whether future Hall of Fame tight end Travis Kelce will return or opt for retirement. The team may also need to invest some resources in the quarterback position, as it’s not clear if Mahomes will return in time for the start of the regular season. If his rehab for a torn ACL and LCL stretches longer, the Chiefs may need to sign a veteran who can start the season.