Chiefs' improved run game may be key to prolonging dynasty

For many years, quarterback Patrick Mahomes could be counted on to take absolutely nothing and turn it into something with the Kansas City Chiefs offense. 

Back-breaking plays somehow ended up as touchdowns. A 3rd-and-long was never really a lost cause. When a play broke down, or no receiver got open, he almost always saved the day. 

But after what seemed like an offseason where the biggest point of emphasis was to improve the running game, maybe now the Chiefs have put together an offense that will assist Mahomes instead of requiring him to play hero football on every Sunday.

Chiefs improved run game by signing Kenneth Walker III

One of the reasons why the Chiefs run game improved is because they signed running back Kenneth Walker III. For years, this team has relied solely on Mahomes creating plays on the outside, and it sometimes gets to where if a game is close late they go one-dimensional. A fast back with Walker's playmaking ability should give this offense a different flavor every Sunday, while alleviating some of the burden off of the offense and the shoulders of Mahomes.

Walker's stats tell you everything you need to know about his abilities. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry on his 221 attempts this past year while gaining 1,027 yards in his 17 games. He also added 282 yards through the air as he has shown he can make plays in every way imaginable. Walker continued this on the grandest stage of all where he was ultimately named Super Bowl LX MVP after the Seattle Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots.

Talent in the receiver room but nothing close to elite

Part of what makes the Chiefs' improved run game feel so important is the uncertainty surrounding the receiving corps. Rashee Rice remains Kansas City’s top wide receiver, but his 2025 season produced 53 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns across eight games, numbers that feel more productive than dominant. 

Meanwhile, tight end Travis Kelce continues to age, and while still effective, the Chiefs can no longer realistically expect him to carry the offense the way he once did. That is exactly why adding Walker feels so important for Mahomes and the offense moving forward.

Adding years to Patrick Mahomes' career

With a little more reliability, the renewed run game will aid Mahomes' health long term. More reliance on the run takes away predictable passing situations and relieves Mahomes from having to play hero ball all of the time. Most importantly, it leads to fewer hits, knockdowns, and sacks he takes. Mahomes was taken down for sacks a career-high 34 times (tied for 12th highest in the league) and lost 193 yards on sack plays last season.

In Weeks 11-15 alone, Mahomes was sacked a total of 17 times. That is 50% of his season's total in just five games. And at the end of the season against the Los Angeles Chargers, Mahomes sustained ACL and LCL tears, taking him out for the remainder of the year.

A balanced offense could do wonders

If the Chiefs' improved run game becomes as dangerous as Kansas City hopes, the benefits may extend far beyond just offensive balance. 

Fewer obvious passing situations and fewer hits on Mahomes could help preserve the face of the franchise long term. With Kelce aging and the receiving corps still lacking a true superstar breakout option, leaning more heavily on Walker and the ground game may quietly become one of the biggest keys to prolonging Kansas City’s dynasty.