The Kansas City Chiefs have been productive during free agency.
Despite losing several starters, the Chiefs have filled most of their roster holes with new signings. They will address what’s left with their nine selections in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Kansas City’s top free agent acquisition was Kenneth Walker III, who it signed to a three-year, $43.05 million contract with $29.7 million guaranteed. Walker will almost certainly be a big upgrade from what the Chiefs have had at the running back position over the past few years, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t come with any concerns.
Kansas City Chiefs RB Kenneth Walker III Named Among Worst 2026 Free Agent Signings
Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report recently ranked his 10 worst free agents signings of the offseason. Coming in at No. 2 was Walker, largely due to his injury history.
“When last we saw running back Kenneth Walker III, he was gouging the New England Patriots for 135 rushing yards on 27 carries on the way to winning MVP honors in Super Bowl LX. That big game got the 25-year-old the big bucks: just over $43 million over three years from the Kansas City Chiefs. However, Reid alluded to part of the potential problem. Throughout his four-year career, Walker has struggled with nagging injuries. Last year was the first time he played in all 17 games. While the 2022 second-round pick has posted two 1,000-yard seasons, he has never had 230 carries in a season. He has also never played 600 snaps in a season. Walker is being paid like a bell-cow running back. But to date, he hasn’t shown that he can actually be one.”
Walker missed two games in 2023 due to a oblique strain. He may have reached 1,000 rushing yards had he stayed healthy, missing the mark by just 95 yards. Walker was plagued by several injuries in 2024, including his oblique, calf, and ankle, costing him a total of six games. When healthy, he often came off the field on third downs in favor to backup Zach Charbonnet.
Walker Is a Good Signing for Chiefs Despite Injury History
GettyChiefs RB Kenneth Walker III
Pointing out Walker’s past injuries as a point for concern is fair. The Chiefs are paying him a lot of money, and it would be a shame if he ends up spending a significant part of his time in Kansas City being hurt. However, the thought that Walker was brought in to carry the offense is a misconception.
He may have to do so if quarterback Patrick Mahomes misses some time as he rehabs from his torn ACL, but that will likely only be a short window of time. The Chiefs acquired Walker to bring big-play ability to their backfield, something they haven’t had in many years. As long as Mahomes is at the helm, he will be the one shouldering the load.
However, Walker should take some pressure off him. Walker ranked third among all running backs in explosive run rate last season. Meanwhile, Kansas City ranked dead last in that department in 2025. Just having the threat of Walker will in the backfield will open up the passing game, which will lead to a more balanced offensive attack.
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