Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker during a press conference.
Running back Kenneth Walker III is the premier free agent signing for the Kansas City Chiefs so far during the offseason.
One of their most glaring roster needs was at the running back position, and they addressed it in the biggest way possible by signing the top one available in Walker. The four-year veteran received a three-year, $43.05 million contract with $28.7 million guaranteed from Kansas City.
Walker will not only give the Chiefs’ rushing attack a boost, but he will open things up for quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the passing game. Mahomes hasn’t often had a running back he can lean on during his nine-year NFL career. Kansas City will hope to have a more balanced offensive approach with Walker now in the mix.
Kansas City Chiefs RB Kenneth Walker Has Positive First Meeting With QB Patrick Mahomes
While speaking to the media during his introductory press conference on Thursday, Walker revealed that he has already met with Mahomes.
“When I came here he (Mahomes) tweeted out, and then we talked on the phone and texted each other,” Walker said. “And I was able to see him today. It was cool to meet him. [He’s] a real genuine person.”
When the Chiefs signed Walker, Mahomes immediately took to X to post “LET’S GO!!”
Walker and Mahomes will work on building their chemistry throughout the spring and summer, but that could be a little challenging as Mahomes rehabs the torn ACL he sustained back in December. Things that they will have to get on the same page with include timing on handoffs, routes, and pass protection.
The Chiefs may need to lean on Walker as the centerpiece of their offense as Mahomes works his way back. In 2025 Walker rushed for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns, also adding 31 receptions for 282 yards. During the postseason he averaged 104 rushing yards per game and totaled four touchdowns, culminating in being named MVP of Super Bowl LX.
Examining the Chiefs’ Remaining Needs on Offense
Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs reacts against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter in the game at Arrowhead Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Kansas City, Missouri
Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes- Getty
Now that a starting running back can be checked off the list, the Chiefs can move on to other needs. Stick with that position for a moment, they may want to add a proven backup for Walker. Second year players Brashard Smith and ShunDerrick Powell are the only other running backs that Kansas City has under contract in 2026.
The Chiefs also need to address the wide receiver position in a big way. They cannot rely on Rashee Rice to be available given his off-the-field issues. Given that he is currently their top wide receiver, that becomes a significant need. Guys like Xavier Worthy and Tyquan Thornton are nice pieces of the puzzle, but need a strong No. 1 to open things up for them.
Kansas City has been keeping an eye on the offensive tackle market after releasing Jawaan Taylor. Second-year man Josh Simmons should have the left tackle spot locked down, but there will be competition at right tackle. The top two candidates for the job who are currently on the Chiefs’ roster are Jaylon Moore and Esa Pole, but they may want to bring in a more proven veteran.