Kansas City Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III (9) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Denver Broncos at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
When the Kansas City Chiefs acquired running back Kenneth Walker III in free agency in March, many felt that the team suddenly had a cheat code.
Well, that was exactly what Walker looked like for the Chiefs in their victory over the Denver Broncos, 31-10, at Arrowhead Stadium on Monday.
The 25-year-old star was terrific in his much-anticipated debut for Kansas City, collecting 23 carries for 173 yards and a touchdown.
With Walker leading the way, the Chiefs tallied over 200 yards for the first time since their win over the New York Jets in Week 4 in 2023, according to sports reporter Tod Palmer.
“Kenneth Walker III's 173 yards are tied for the 15th most for any Chiefs (player) in a single game. It's the third-most against Denver by any Kansas City back (2010 – Jamaal Charles, 259 and 2008 – Larry Johnson, 198),” added Palmer, underscoring Walker's rousing debut.
The Chiefs also ended a 10-year drought at Arrowhead Stadium with their 200 rushing yards against the Broncos.
The defense limited Denver to 61 rushing yards.
Walker, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, will remain a prime target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who contributed 23 yards on seven carries against Denver. Before the season, coach Andy Reid gushed about Walker's passion, adding that he could “let loose” the one-time champion as they aim to improve their running attack.
“I like the kid. I like his work ethic. He's all ball, and you love that part of him. He works his tail off out of practice and in the classroom,” said Reid in a report from KC Kingdom's Ernesto Cova.
Kansas City will battle the Indianapolis Colts in Week 2.