Kenneth Walker III to Chiefs: Super Bowl MVP Signs with Kansas City
Kansas City has made a significant splash in the early days of free agency, securing the services of Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III. The Chiefs and the former Seattle Seahawks running back agreed to terms on a contract , according to multiple reports.
Walker, 25, arrives in Kansas City after a breakout 2025 season that culminated in a dominant performance in Seattle’s victory over the New England Patriots. He rushed for 161 yards in the Super Bowl, becoming the first running back to earn the game’s MVP honors since Terrell Davis in 1998.
The Seahawks selected Walker in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Michigan State. He quickly established himself as a premier running back, exceeding 1,100 scrimmage yards and scoring nine touchdowns in both his rookie and sophomore campaigns. Whereas durability concerns arose due to injuries in 2024 – missing six games with oblique, calf, and ankle issues – Walker addressed those concerns in 2025.
A focused offseason dedicated to improving his diet and sleep habits paid dividends. Walker remained healthy throughout the 2025 regular season, sharing the backfield with Zach Charbonnet and ultimately totaling a career-high 1,309 scrimmage yards and averaging 4.6 yards per carry. His performance surged in the latter part of the season, increasing his yards-per-carry average from 4.4 over the first 15 weeks to an impressive 5.9 over the final three games.
The injury to Charbonnet, who tore his ACL in the divisional round of the playoffs, thrust Walker into the role of Seattle’s primary ball carrier. He responded emphatically, racking up 417 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns in three playoff games. His Super Bowl performance cemented his status as one of the league’s most dynamic runners.
Walker’s ability to create explosive plays is a key attribute that attracted the Chiefs. He boasts 34 career carries (including playoffs) of 20-plus yards since 2022, the fourth-most among all running backs in that span. This includes a 55-yard touchdown run against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 16 of the 2025 season.
The addition of Walker significantly bolsters the Chiefs’ offensive arsenal, already spearheaded by quarterback Patrick Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce. Kansas City’s offense will look different with Walker in the backfield, adding a dimension of explosiveness and power that could prove crucial in their pursuit of another championship. The Chiefs’ current running back depth chart includes Brashard Smith alongside Walker.
For the Seahawks, losing Walker represents a significant departure, but they had a successful run with the young back. His impact on the franchise, culminating in a Super Bowl title, will be remembered fondly in Seattle. The team will now look to fill the void left by his departure, potentially through the draft or further free agency moves.
Walker’s arrival in Kansas City immediately elevates the Chiefs’ Super Bowl aspirations. His combination of power, speed, and playmaking ability makes him a valuable asset in both the running and passing game. The Chiefs’ coaching staff will be eager to integrate him into their offensive scheme and maximize his potential.
The Chiefs’ decision to pursue Walker underscores their commitment to building a championship-caliber roster. They recognize the importance of a strong running game in complementing Mahomes’ passing prowess. Walker’s presence will not only provide a reliable rushing attack but also alleviate some of the pressure on Mahomes, creating more opportunities for the Chiefs’ offense to thrive.
The AFC West is poised to be highly competitive in 2026, and the addition of Walker gives the Chiefs a clear advantage. His ability to control the clock, wear down opposing defenses, and deliver clutch performances in critical moments will be invaluable as the Chiefs navigate a challenging schedule. The move signals a clear intent: the Chiefs are not content with simply reaching the playoffs; they are determined to contend for another Super Bowl title.