Overview
- The Chiefs officially downgraded Kenneth Walker III to out for Sunday’s Week 10 game after he tweaked his groin in practice, a decision announced Saturday and confirmed by multiple NFL insiders.
- Head coach Andy Reid said Walker reported groin tightness before the final on-field practice and emphasized the team will not risk turning a minor injury into a longer-term problem.
- Rookie Emmett Johnson will make his first career start to lead the Kansas City backfield after the team elevated practice-squad back Nate Carter and listed Jaydn Ott as questionable.
- With Walker sidelined, Kansas City is likely to lean more on Patrick Mahomes and the passing game and to feature new receiver Josh Downs as the offense adjusts play calling.
- Walker has 872 rushing yards through eight games this season and sources say the injury is not expected to be long term, with the Chiefs anticipating his return in Week 11 while monitoring his recovery.