Kansas City Chiefs star running back Kenneth Walker III is officially sidelined for Sunday’s Week 10 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. The running back was downgraded to out on Saturday after experiencing groin tightness.
Walker reported the discomfort on Friday morning and missed Kansas City’s final practice session before the team departed for Atlanta. Rather than risk aggravating a soft-tissue injury on turf, head coach Andy Reid and the medical staff opted to hold him out.
Earlier reports covered how the Chiefs took cautious decision to rule out Kenneth Walker for Week 10 game vs Falcons. Consequently, Kansas City must adjust its offensive game plan without its leading rusher and 1,044-yard all-purpose machine.
Emmett Johnson will have to deliver as the RB1 vs Falcons
With Walker sidelined, rookie fifth-round pick Emmett Johnson steps directly into the starting RB1 role at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Not only that, but fellow rookie backup Jaydn Ott enters Sunday listed as questionable with a hamstring issue, placing an even heavier workload on Johnson’s shoulders.
It’s the rook’s time to shine 🤩
— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) November 14, 2026
Emmett Johnson will lead the #Chiefs backfield on Sunday vs the Falcons pic.twitter.com/YAnDqYRcnZ
Johnson has shown he is a legitimate dual-threat playmaking across limited touches this season, tallying 111 rushing yards, 237 receiving yards, and two total touchdowns. Facing a vulnerable Atlanta run defense gives Johnson a prime opportunity to help out Patrick Mahomes.
Walker should be back for Week 11 vs Cardinals
Fortunately for Kansas City, Walker’s groin ailment is considered minor and is not expected to linger beyond Week 10. Resting him in vs Atlanta provides a full 10-day recovery window before the Chiefs return to action.
Barring any unexpected setbacks during next week’s practices, Walker is on track to reclaim his starting spot in Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals. Protecting their premier offensive weapon now ensures he remains healthy for the crucial second-half AFC playoff push.
Key takeaways
- Kenneth Walker III is officially sidelined for Kansas City’s Week 10 matchup against Atlanta.
- Rookie Emmett Johnson steps into the starting RB1 role for the Kansas City Chiefs.
- Kenneth Walker III is on track to return in Week 11 against Arizona.
