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Chiefs Predicted to Sign 1,100-Yard Running Back

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jan 28, 2026 12:30 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs went 6-11 in 2025, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014. A big piece of their struggles was a lack in the rushing attack.

Kareem Hunt and Isaiah Pacheco served as Kansas City's two top running backs. Together, they combined for 1,093 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on 281 carries. They also had 37 receptions for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

Both are set to hit NFL free agency on March 11. This provides them with an opportunity to make a big switch at the position. Bleacher Report's Alex Kay predicts the Chiefs will sign Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr.

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

"Etienne returned to form and put himself back on the map this past season," Kay wrote. "Despite missing his entire rookie year with injury and suffering several ailments that limited him in 2024, the versatile, dynamic running back has been one of the most consistent performers in football over the past four years."

Etienne appeared in 17 games for the Jaguars in 2025. He racked up 1,107 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 260 carries. He was also a factor in the passing game with 36 receptions for 292 yards and six touchdowns.

He's had three 1,000-yard seasons since being selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The last Chiefs running back to hit that mark was Hunt back in 2017.

It may not cost much to land the running back, either. Spotrac predicts Etienne's market value will earn him a two-year, $13.6 million deal.

The Chiefs finished the 2025 season tied for 20th in rushing yards per attempt (4.2) and ranked 25th in rushing yards per game (106.6). Replacing Pacheco and Hunt with Etienne could give Kansas City a much-needed boost.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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