Chiefs Sign RB Kenneth Walker to Massive Deal

Three-year, $45 million contract is largest ever for a free agent running back.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Kansas City Chiefs have signed former Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker to a three-year, $45 million contract, the largest free agent deal ever given to a running back. Walker was a second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and many analysts considered him the top pure runner in that class.

Why it matters

The Chiefs have been searching for a franchise running back since the departure of Jamaal Charles, and this signing of Walker signals they believe they have found their next big-time ball carrier to anchor their offense.

The details

After trying out several different running backs in recent years, including Kareem Hunt, Spencer Ware, and Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs have now committed a massive contract to Walker, who was widely viewed as one of the top running back prospects in the 2022 draft class.

  • The Chiefs signed Walker to the three-year, $45 million contract on Monday, March 10, 2026.

The players

Kenneth Walker

A former second-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft out of Michigan State, Walker was considered by many analysts to be the top pure running back prospect in that class.

Jamaal Charles

A former superstar running back for the Kansas City Chiefs who departed the team in recent years.

Kareem Hunt

A running back who had a brief stint with the Chiefs early in his career.

Spencer Ware

A running back who played for the Chiefs in recent seasons as they searched for a franchise back.

Isiah Pacheco

A running back who has been part of the Chiefs' rotation in recent years as they looked to find their next star ball carrier.

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What they’re saying

“This signing shows the Chiefs are serious about finding their next great running back and are willing to invest heavily to do so.”

— NFL Analyst (chatsports.com)

What’s next

The Chiefs will look to integrate Walker into their offense and see if he can become the long-term answer at running back they have been seeking.

The takeaway

The Chiefs' massive investment in Kenneth Walker signals their belief that he can be the franchise running back to lead their offense for years to come, filling a key need that has persisted since the departure of Jamaal Charles.