Chiefs Sign Super Bowl MVP Walker
The Kansas City Chiefs just snagged Super Bowl MVP running back Kenneth Walker III with a three-year, $45 million deal [https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/kenneth-walker-iii-signing-45-162557548.html], [https://www.espn.com.sg/nfl/story/_/id/48153654/source-super-bowl-mvp-kenneth-walker-agrees-sign-chiefs] — he's set to replace Isiah Pacheco as their feature back. Walker was key in the Seahawks’ Super Bowl win, so this is a major offensive boost for the Chiefs as they aim to stay dominant.
Walker's three-year contract is worth $43.05 million, potentially reaching $45 million with incentives. The deal includes $28.7 million in guaranteed money, placing him near the top of the league for running back guarantees. His average annual salary of $14.35 million ties him with Derrick Henry as the third-highest-paid running back in the NFL. The Chiefs' acquisition of Walker signals a shift towards prioritizing the running game, especially with Patrick Mahomes recovering from a knee injury. In 2025, the Chiefs' rushing attack struggled, placing more pressure on Mahomes. Walker is expected to bring a more explosive element to the Chiefs' ground game. Isiah Pacheco, the Chiefs' former starting running back, had a productive career with 2,537 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns over three seasons. However, he has also battled injuries, including a fractured fibula in 2024. Pacheco is known for his violent running style, often running at "110 percent," leading to both explosive plays and injuries. As of March 10, 2026, the Chiefs have $21.7 million in cap space remaining. They freed up cap space by restructuring Patrick Mahomes' contract, converting $44.05 million of his 2026 salary into a bonus. Other notable moves by the Chiefs this offseason include re-signing Travis Kelce and trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams.
