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Chiefs Sign RB Kenneth Walker III to 3-Year, $45M Deal
Former Seahawks star to bolster Kansas City's backfield after Super Bowl MVP performance
Published on Mar. 9, 2026
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The Kansas City Chiefs have agreed to a three-year, $45 million contract with former Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III. The deal includes $28.7 million in guaranteed money and an average base salary of $14.35 million per year. Walker, who was a second-round pick by the Seahawks in 2022, is coming off a standout season in which he totaled 1,309 yards from scrimmage and 5 touchdowns, including a strong postseason performance capped by a 161-yard effort in the Super Bowl LX win.
Why it matters
The Chiefs are looking to bolster their running game after finishing with the NFL's eighth-worst rushing offense in 2025. With the departures of Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco, Walker's addition provides a proven playmaker to pair with Brashard Smith in the backfield. The move also weakens the Seahawks, who now must replace their top rusher from last season.
The details
Walker, a 25-year-old 5'9" 211-pound back, was a second-round pick by the Seahawks in 2022. He had a breakout season in 2025, racking up 1,309 yards from scrimmage and 5 touchdowns. In the playoffs, he was even better, totaling 417 yards and 4 scores, including a 161-yard performance in the Super Bowl LX win over the Patriots. The Chiefs are hoping he can provide a similar boost to their ground game, which struggled in 2025.
- On March 9, 2026, the Chiefs and Walker agreed to the 3-year, $45 million contract.
The players
Kenneth Walker III
A 25-year-old running back who was previously with the Seattle Seahawks. He is coming off a standout 2025 season in which he totaled 1,309 yards from scrimmage and 5 touchdowns, including a strong postseason performance.
Kareem Hunt
A former Chiefs running back who is headed for free agency in 2026.
Isiah Pacheco
A former Chiefs running back who is also headed for free agency in 2026.
Brashard Smith
The only Chiefs running back from 2025 who remains under contract in 2026.
Zach Charbonnet
A top Seahawks running back from 2025 who remains under contract in 2026 after totaling 874 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns.
What they’re saying
“We must bolster our running game to compete at the highest level. Kenneth Walker III is a dynamic playmaker who will make an immediate impact.”
— Andy Reid, Head Coach, Kansas City Chiefs (Chiefs press release)
What’s next
The Chiefs will look to integrate Walker into their offense during the offseason program and training camp, with the goal of him being a key contributor in 2026.
The takeaway
This move signals the Chiefs' commitment to improving their ground game after a disappointing 2025 season. Walker's addition provides a talented and proven runner to pair with their passing attack, potentially making the Chiefs' offense even more dangerous in 2026.
