How Kenneth Walker Could Take Chiefs’ Offense to Elite Level

When the Kansas City Chiefs drafted Patrick Mahomes, they set their sights on creating an offensive juggernaut capable of dominating the NFL for years to come. Since then, Mahomes has transformed into one of the most electrifying quarterbacks the league has ever seen. However, as the Chiefs continue their journey to sustain and elevate their offensive power, there is one crucial piece they may be missing—a game-changing running back. Enter Kenneth Walker, the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl MVP, who could take the Chiefs’ offense to an even higher level.

In an era where running backs are often viewed as dispensable commodities, the idea of investing in a high-profile running back like Walker might raise some eyebrows. But as Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer pointed out during the Indianapolis Combine, the Chiefs would be wise to pursue Walker as he could complement not only Mahomes but also the current depth of their backfield, which includes veteran Kareem Hunt and second-year back Brashard Smith.

Walker’s explosive style on the field has already made him a household name. In the 2025 Super Bowl against the New England Patriots, his performance was nothing short of spectacular, rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries and adding two catches for 26 yards. His ability to bulldoze through defenses, paired with his elite vision and acceleration, makes him an ideal complement to Mahomes’ passing attack. Walker’s blend of power running and toughness could open up a whole new dimension for the Chiefs, giving them a more complete offense.

The Reemergence of the Running Back Position in Free Agency

As Breer noted, in recent years, teams have started to re-evaluate the value of running backs. Once considered a dime-a-dozen position in a pass-heavy league, running backs like Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, and Derrick Henry have proven that a top-tier rusher can be a cornerstone of an elite offense. The Eagles, Packers, and Ravens all made big investments in free-agent running backs in the past two offseasons, and the results have paid off. In this context, the Chiefs would be wise to join the growing list of teams that have realized the true value of a dynamic backfield presence.

While Walker has shown that he is more than capable of carrying the ball with authority, it’s his fit within the Chiefs’ offense that makes him so intriguing. The Chiefs already have Hunt, a bruising running back who was impressive in 2025. Hunt’s role with the team has been vital, especially in short-yardage situations. If Hunt can be retained with a new contract, he could continue to provide stability, but adding a player like Walker would add an entirely new dimension to their ground game.

Walker’s Fit with Kansas City’s Offensive Scheme

Walker’s style of play meshes well with Andy Reid’s offense, which is known for its creativity and its ability to maximize the talents of each player. Walker excels as a smashmouth back, using his powerful frame to break tackles and pick up tough yards. His physicality would balance well with the Chiefs’ quick-strike passing game, where Mahomes often finds success with long throws to wide receivers like Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce.

But Walker would not just be an early-down back for the Chiefs. His ability to stay involved in the passing game, even if it’s not his primary strength, gives him flexibility. Kansas City could use Walker in a similar fashion to how the team utilized Brian Westbrook during Reid’s time in Philadelphia—making him a threat out of the backfield while still maintaining his role as a strong, early-down rusher.

Moreover, second-year back Brashard Smith could become a fascinating third-down option. Smith, who came into the NFL as a former wide receiver, possesses excellent burst and agility. Smith’s versatility makes him an ideal candidate to create mismatches in the passing game, lining up out wide or coming out of the backfield as a receiving threat. Smith, paired with a physical runner like Walker, could give Reid even more weapons to confuse and overwhelm opposing defenses.

What Walker Brings to the Chiefs

Walker’s skill set is undeniable, and he could provide the Chiefs with the perfect balance between power and finesse. While Mahomes is known for his incredible arm strength and ability to throw the ball downfield, having a reliable running back who can control the clock and convert short-yardage situations would give the Chiefs offense a much-needed dimension. Walker’s ability to move the chains and take pressure off Mahomes could elevate Kansas City’s offense to the next level, potentially making them unstoppable.

In addition to his on-field skills, Walker brings leadership and toughness to the locker room. As a Super Bowl MVP, his experience in big games could help elevate the Chiefs’ mentality as they continue to chase Super Bowl titles in the coming years.

The Chiefs’ Pursuit of Walker and Their Long-Term Vision

The Chiefs are no strangers to making bold moves, and pursuing Walker could be another move that strengthens their Super Bowl aspirations. The idea of pairing Mahomes with Walker in a high-powered offense is tantalizing, but the road to landing Walker won’t be easy. He is set to become a free agent in March, and the Chiefs aren’t the only team that will be interested. The Broncos, Texans, and other contenders could all make serious offers for Walker’s services.

But Kansas City has one key advantage over most teams—Mahomes. The star quarterback has proven time and again that he is the ultimate recruiter, and if Walker is seriously considering his next move, Mahomes’ presence could be the deciding factor. The chance to play alongside one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks, in an offense designed to exploit defenses, could be exactly what Walker needs to take his game to the next level.

Seattle’s Decision and What’s Next for Walker

Seattle’s general manager, John Schneider, has until March 3 to decide whether to franchise tag Walker. If the Seahawks choose to franchise Walker, it would buy them more time to negotiate a long-term extension. However, the decision is not as straightforward as it may seem. Walker is a key player for Seattle’s future, but the team will have to decide whether they can keep him at the price he demands, or if they will let him explore free agency.

If the Seahawks choose to let him hit the open market, Walker could become one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. For teams like the Chiefs, who are looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their roster, this could be the opportunity they’ve been waiting for. The prospect of adding a Super Bowl MVP to the mix is enticing, and Walker could be the piece that puts Kansas City’s offense over the top.

Final Thoughts

Kenneth Walker’s potential fit with the Kansas City Chiefs is an exciting one. His ability to complement Mahomes, along with his powerful running style, could create a truly dynamic offense. With the Chiefs looking to maintain their status as one of the NFL’s elite teams, adding a player like Walker could provide the extra spark needed to take their offense to an even higher level. The next few months will be critical in determining whether the Chiefs can secure his services, but if they can, it could be the move that pushes them closer to another Super Bowl victory.

As the free agency period approaches, the clock is ticking, and the Chiefs must weigh their options carefully. Whether they manage to land Walker or not, one thing is clear—Kansas City’s pursuit of greatness is far from over.