Chiefs Seek Running Back to Bolster Mahomes' Offense

Kansas City looks to add 1,000-yard rusher in draft or free agency

Jan. 30, 2026 at 5:07pm

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The Kansas City Chiefs are planning to upgrade their running back position, either through the NFL Draft or free agency, in an effort to provide more balance to their offense and take some of the burden off star quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Why it matters

Mahomes has had to shoulder an outsized offensive load in recent seasons due to a lack of consistent production from the Chiefs' running game. Adding a proven 1,000-yard rusher could help take pressure off Mahomes and make the Chiefs' offense more dynamic and less predictable for opposing defenses.

The details

The Chiefs' passing attack led by Mahomes has been among the league's most prolific in recent years, but the team's ground game has been inconsistent. Kansas City is seeking to find a running back who can provide 1,000 yards or more in a season to complement Mahomes' passing prowess and create a more balanced offensive attack.

  • The Chiefs' search for a top running back will take place in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft and free agency period.

The players

Patrick Mahomes

The Chiefs' star quarterback who has carried a heavy offensive load in recent seasons.

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What’s next

The Chiefs will closely evaluate running back prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft and monitor the free agent market for potential upgrades at the position.

The takeaway

By adding a 1,000-yard caliber running back, the Chiefs can take some of the pressure off Patrick Mahomes and create a more balanced, dynamic offense that will be harder for opposing defenses to game plan against.