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Chiefs Predicted to Replace Isiah Pacheco by Signing 31-TD Free Agent RB
Kansas City could overhaul its struggling run game and add explosive backfield talent in 2026 free agency.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to pursue free agent running back Kenneth Walker III this offseason to upgrade their backfield and potentially replace current starter Isiah Pacheco. Walker, the Super Bowl 60 MVP, is coming off a 1,000-yard rushing season and could provide the explosive element the Chiefs' offense has lacked behind quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Why it matters
The Chiefs' offense struggled at times last season, missing the playoffs for the first time in the Mahomes era. Upgrading the run game has become a priority, as Pacheco has been solid but unspectacular, and the team has failed to find a true difference-maker in the backfield in recent years despite using a first-round pick on Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
The details
Walker, who has 31 total touchdowns across his first three NFL seasons, is expected to draw significant interest in free agency. The Chiefs are viewed as a logical landing spot, with the team's need for more explosiveness in the run game and Walker's potential to pair with Mahomes' passing attack. Signing Walker would likely push Pacheco into a reduced role or lead to the Chiefs exploring trade or release options for the second-year back.
- Walker is coming off a Super Bowl MVP performance for the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl 60.
- The Chiefs missed the playoffs for the first time in the Patrick Mahomes era last season.
The players
Kenneth Walker III
A free agent running back who is coming off a Super Bowl MVP performance and a 1,000-yard rushing season. He is expected to draw significant interest in free agency.
Isiah Pacheco
The Chiefs' current starting running back, who has been solid but unspectacular, leading the team to explore upgrades at the position.
Patrick Mahomes
The Chiefs' star quarterback, who is looking to bounce back after the team missed the playoffs for the first time in his era.
What’s next
The Chiefs will need to evaluate their options in free agency and determine if signing Kenneth Walker III is the best path forward to upgrade their run game and support Patrick Mahomes' passing attack.
The takeaway
The Chiefs' struggles on offense last season, particularly in the run game, have prompted the team to explore significant upgrades this offseason, with the potential addition of free agent running back Kenneth Walker III emerging as a top priority to help restore their offensive firepower.
