Running back Kenneth Walker III recently spoke with Kay Adams on her show to discuss Patrick Mahomes’ influence on his free-agent signing decisions and on building chemistry on the field.

“We’ve been working on getting connected in the passing game and everything, so that’s good. I feel like I’ll be used more in the pass game,” said Walker, who praised Mahomes’ focus on the game plan. “He’s really good at being detailed with the whole team, and that chemistry is going to keep building.”

The Chiefs signed running back Kenneth Walker to a three-year, $43.05 million contract. The 25-year-old is coming off a 1,000-yard season and a Super Bowl MVP performance with the Seattle Seahawks.

What Mahomes did to help bring him in

He also revealed that during last year’s playoffs, Mahomes was pushing for Chiefs general manager Brett Veach to sign the running back. Walker was impressive during Seattle’s Super Bowl run, rushing for 313 yards and four touchdowns in three games.

His comment reflected just how much Kansas City’s front office valued Mahomes’ opinion. With a new option in the backfield, the Chiefs are aiming to recapture their dominance in the NFL by leaning on Walker.

Walker’s performance drew attention

Last season with the Seattle Seahawks, Walker rushed for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns. He was also impactful in the passing game with 31 receptions for 282 yards. And with those numbers, he was clearly going to attract attention.

“I feel like it would have had a lot to do with it, you know, he’s (Mahomes) the best quarterback in the league,” said Walker. “So, I feel like he’s got a lot of power in there. I’m glad he does because I’m here now.” He is expected to play a much-needed role in the offense and provide Mahomes with weapons.

While they have remained measured in their public stance, the latest update suggests there is real progress behind the scenes. Ian Rapoport provided insight into where things stand, pointing to optimism inside the buillding without going as far as declaring a full return imminent.

“I wouldn’t be surprised based on the words of Andy Reid if he’s out there for OTAs. The Chiefs have an excellent medical and training staff. They’re going to make sure that if he’s on the field, he’s out of harm’s way and he’s ok. To allow him to be on the field is a little bit of a reward for the work he has done. He has been working. This feels to me like the team is, you know what? You have earned the right to be on the field for OTA’s.”

Chiefs balancing optimism with caution in Patrick Mahomes’ recovery timeline

Even with that optimism, there is still a clear line between progress and full readiness. The idea of Patrick Mahomes stepping onto the field for OTAs would mark an important milestone, but it would not automatically signal that he is on track to start the 2026 season without limitations.

Rapoport made sure to draw that distinction, emphasizing that offseason participation should not be confused with full clearance when games begin. “This does not necessarily mean that he’s going to be on the field when the season starts. That’s all very different.”

For the Chiefs, the approach remains simple: protect the long-term while acknowledging the progress. Even limited involvement in OTAs would reflect the work Mahomes has put into his rehab, but the ultimate goal is unchanged. Andy Reid and Brett Veach are focused on having their quarterback at full strength when it matters most, not just when the offseason schedule begins.

“He’s very far ahead of schedule,” Veach said during an appearance on SiriusXM. “I think the biggest challenge we’re going to have is protecting Mahomes from himself because I’m sure that when we get to St. Joseph, Missouri, for training camp, he’ll want to be fully involved.”

This important progress placed Mahomes in a position to potentially participate in parts of the Chiefs’ offseason training program if his recovery continues without setbacks. In fact, Mahomes’ progress allowed the Chiefs to waive Jake Haener without hesitation as the QB room is already full.

Preventive measures for the Chiefs

Mahomes is recovering from a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament and the lateral collateral ligament in his left knee, which he suffered last December in the Chiefs’ Week 15 loss against the Los Angeles Chargers. Although the typical recovery time is nine to 12 months, his current progress puts him on track to potentially return for training camp before the 2026 NFL season, if not earlier.

“It’s been really inspiring,” Veach said. “I’ve been there with Pat before, when he dislocated his knee and worked his tail off to come back in three weeks. I knew that that obstacle in the road wouldn’t slow him down at all.”

Even with Mahomes apparently ahead, Veach is focused on protecting him throughout the rehabilitation process. Although his return to the field would provide a boost, the team remains focused on taking a cautious and long-term approach rather than rushing him back.

“We’ll have to hold him back a little,” Veach said. “I don’t want to put a timetable on it, but I think you know the type of person and competitor that Pat Mahomes is. I would just say we’re in a pretty good place right now.” Now the focus shifted less on the knee itself and more on managing Mahomes’ competitive spirit.

On Monday, the Chiefs announced a number of roster moves, including waiving Haener, who spent only a few months in Kansas City after signing a reserve/future contract in February.

Haener was released alongside DE Ethan Hurkett and DT Zacch Pickens as the Chiefs made room for free agents WR Xavier Loyd, DB Marlen Sewell, and T Kahlil Benson.

Jake Haener’s brief NFL experience

Haener, 27, spent three years with the New Orleans Saints (2023-2025) after being selected with the 127th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

In eight appearances with the Saints (one start), Haener completed 18 of 39 passes for 226 yards for a touchdown and an interception. He also had 11 scrambles for 22 yards and got sacked six times.

Chiefs QB room has enough depth behind Mahomes

When Haener joined the Chiefs, the team was heading into the offseason with Chris Oladokun as its only healthy QB under contract. Mahomes, facing a long rehab after underdoing knee surgery to repair ACL and LCL injuries, had the team wondering how to navigate these months until his recovery.

But the Chiefs QB situation got clearer with free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft. Kansas City first signed Justin Fields, who has a big fan in Reid, and then went on to draft LSU product Garrett Nussmeier, who’s willing to sit back and learn from Reid and Mahomes.

The Chiefs now have enough options in the QB room, which GM Brett Veach considers the best in the NFL. And with Reid recently suggesting Mahomes is on track to be at OTAs (Organized Team Activities) later this month, Haener was no longer needed.

According to insider Matt Derrick via his X account, the coach revealed that they will remain careful with the quarterback during the Organized Team Activities, primarily to keep the options open for starting camp on the physically unable to perform list. The good news is that he also added that Mahomes is currently throwing on his own.

“If he can do some things, you know, phase two, remember is there’s no contact, there’s no offense versus defense. So it’s phase three that you get into that once you start the clock, then the clock’s got to be rolling,” Reid said to the press.

Slowly but steadily, without rushing any part of the recovery process. There is still a long time before the start of a new NFL season, and in Chiefs Kingdom there is optimism about seeing their star player available from the very beginning.

The fateful day for Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes suffered a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee during the Week 15 matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on December 14, 2025. The injury occurred with less than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter as Mahomes was scrambling to his right; his foot planted awkwardly and he was brought down by Chargers defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand.

This devastating injury not only sidelined the MVP but also officially eliminated the Chiefs from playoff contention, marking the first time in his career as a starter that Kansas City missed the postseason.

An interesting QB room for Andy Reid

If Patrick Mahomes is not at 100% for Week 1 of the 2026 season, Andy Reid has a revamped QB room to rely on. The primary backup is now Justin Fields, whom the Chiefs acquired in a trade from the New York Jets this offseason to provide a dynamic veteran presence.

Competing for reps behind him is rookie Garrett Nussmeier, the LSU standout selected with the 249th pick in the 2026 Draft, and Jake Haener, a former 2023 fourth-round pick added for depth. While Chris Oladokun remains the most experienced in Reid’s system among the backups, he faces a steep uphill battle to make the final roster against this new wave of talent as the team awaits the return of their MVP.

Speaking on the Pat McAfee Show, Veach was clear on his message. “We added Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker and we feel real good about our offensive line… We’ve gotta get back to establishing our run game.”

Establishing the run game allows Mahomes to play more freely, and also lets him know that he doesn’t need to play Superman for the Chiefs offense to work. Mahomes is tasked to do a lot. This time around, Kenneth Walker will provide him with the help he needs.

Kenneth Walker can help Mahomes in multiple ways

Walker is an excellent running back, that’s why he won Super Bowl MVP. He brings a balance of speed, raw power, and intelligence to his game that not many RBs possess. He is also fresh off a ring-winning 1,000-yard season.

However, that’s not the only way he can help Mahomes. Walker also had 31 catches for 282 yards last season. Mahomes can perfectly ditch it out and let Walker do the rest. Screen passes and play-action can also be a part of the menu when having someone like Walker.

Veach also mentioned a revamped O-line

The offensive line was also upgraded and that’s key. While not sexy, the O-line is like the door to a house. It doesn’t matter how big or fancy the house is, it’s nothing without a door that protects it. The Chiefs now brought big guys that will protect Mahomes, and also open holes for Walker.

Josh Simmons is likely to take the left tackle spot, with Kingsley Suamataia at left guard. Creed Humphrey will resume his role as center, while Trey Smith will serve as right guard. The right tackle spot will likely belong to Jaylon Moore.

“I know it’s been a long day, but just know that you’re going to head to the best quarterback room in the NFL here,” Veach told Nussmeier, in video released by the franchise. “We’re going to turn this pick in now and make you the newest member of the Kansas City Chiefs.”

Garrett Nussmeier knows he has a lot to learn alongside Reid and Mahomes. It will ultimately be a matter of seeing whether he gets the opportunity to showcase his talent over the course of the upcoming 2026 NFL season.

Nussmeier’s selection makes sense

During his 2025 senior season at LSU, Garrett Nussmeier showcased his resilience despite battling torso and abdominal injuries, finishing his final college campaign with 1,927 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions across nine starts.

His draft journey concluded when the Kansas City Chiefs selected him with the No. 249 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that has quickly gained significance. With Mahomes still in the process of recovering from a complex ACL and LCL tear suffered last December, Reid has reportedly kept the door open for a competitive training camp.

While Mahomes remains the franchise cornerstone, his limited mobility during rehabilitation has led Reid to signal that the depth chart, could see a genuine battle for the starting job or a primary bridge role alongside Justin Fields to start the 2026 season.

The Chiefs’ dominance in the QB room

The Chiefs’ quarterback room enters 2026 with an intriguing blend of elite talent and reclaimed potential. At the helm, Mahomes continues to anchor the franchise; despite a challenging 2025 season, he still managed 3,587 passing yards and 22 touchdowns.

To bolster the unit, Reid will have depth thanks to Justin Fields’ arrival via trade from the Jets, providing the Chiefs with a former first-round pick who boasts an elite athletic pedigree to serve as high-end insurance.

While there is palpable excitement surrounding the arrival of rookie Garrett Nussmeier, veterans Chris Oladokun and Jake Haener currently find themselves at the bottom of the depth chart, likely competing for a spot on the practice squad as the new-look room takes shape.

“Thank you to all that has helped me through the years along my football career. It has allowed me to grow and experience life in ways I can’t put into words,” was part of the heartfelt message in Smith’s official Instagram statement.

The offensive tackle entered the world’s biggest league after being selected in the second round of the 2015 Draft with the 34th overall pick, precisely by the Bucs. His performance wearing the colors of the Penn State Nittany Lions impressed everyone, and he was able to translate it to the NFL.

His success is not only defined by his on-field achievements, but also by his character as a person, as reflected by some of his former teammates. “Blessings brotha honored to share the field with you,” Jaylen Watson said. Creed Humphrey also added: “Congrats on an amazing career brother!”

The first ring alongside Tom Brady

During the 2020 NFL season, Donovan Smith played a pivotal role as the starting left tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, famously protecting Tom Brady’s blindside during their run to a victory in Super Bowl LV. That season, Smith started 15 regular-season games and was a cornerstone of an offensive line that allowed only 22 sacks all year, the second-fewest in the league.

His performance was particularly dominant during the postseason, where he did not allow a single sack across four playoff games, including the 31–9 blowout of the Kansas City Chiefs. Throughout the 2020 campaign, Smith logged over 1,000 offensive snaps, proving his durability and consistency as he secured his first championship ring alongside the legendary quarterback.

The second was alongside Patrick Mahomes

In the 2023 season, Smith joined the Kansas City Chiefs on a one-year deal and immediately took over as the starting left tackle, protecting Patrick Mahomes during their championship run to Super Bowl LVIII. The OT started 12 regular-season games, logging 749 offensive snaps and providing veteran stability to a line that ultimately helped the Chiefs secure a 25–22 overtime victory against the 49ers.

Statistically, Smith earned a 60.3 pass-blocking grade from PFF, allowing only two sacks and 42 total pressures throughout the campaign. His ability to anchor the blindside was a key factor in the Chiefs’ postseason success, making him one of the few players in NFL history to win Super Bowls as a starting left tackle for two different legendary quarterbacks.

Winning alongside Brady and Mahomes is a privilege few have

Few elite playmakers have managed the rare feat of winning Super Bowl rings alongside both Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes, proving to be invaluable assets to the league’s most recent dynasties. Wide receiver Justin Watson secured a title with Brady in Super Bowl LV before earning two more with Mahomes in Super Bowls LVII and LVIII, while legendary running back LeSean McCoy achieved a spectacular back-to-back run by winning with the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV followed immediately by a victory with the Buccaneers.

Additionally, veteran quarterback Blaine Gabbert provided championship-caliber depth as a backup for both icons, earning rings in Super Bowl LV and Super Bowl LVIII respectively.

According to insider Ian Rapoport, that opportunity could be meaningful from the start. “There is going to be an opportunity for Garrett Nussmeier to get serious reps in Kansas City. It certainly seems Nussmeier will be competing to be QB3. Many teams do carry third quarterbacks now. So, he does have a shot.”

That competition becomes even more relevant given the current situation at the top of the depth chart. Patrick Mahomes is recovering from ACL and LCL injuries in his left knee, and while expectations are that he will be ready for the start of the 2026 season, nothing is guaranteed at this stage.

Garrett Nussmeier will have a chance to stay with Chiefs

If Patrick Mahomes is not fully ready, Justin Fields would likely have the edge to step in as the starter. But beyond that, the battle for depth roles remains wide open, and that’s where Nussmeier enters the picture.

The Chiefs currently have multiple quarterbacks competing for positioning behind their top options, including Chris Oladokun and Jake Haener. That creates a crowded environment where every rep in training camp and preseason will carry weight. For Nussmeier, the goal is clear: earn the QB3 role and secure a place on the roster.

What makes his situation particularly compelling is how quickly his trajectory has shifted. Not long ago, he was viewed as one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects in college football. Now, he’s fighting to carve out a role at the next level, but still with enough upside to make things interesting.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to learn,” Nussmeier said to Nate Taylor of ESPN. “I can only imagine. I’m so excited to be in a room with those guys, coach Reid and his unbelievable offensive mind and sitting behind Patrick and steal some things from him and see the game through his eyes.”

Nussmeier only played nine games last season as injuries hampered his season at LSU. However, it was not expected his draft stock to fall all the way to the seventh round. Now, he can learn behind arguably the best coach-QB duo in the NFL.

Nussmeier’s QB profile

Nussmeier has an above average arm, with plenty of strength and a wide arsenal of throws. He is capable of zipping passes into tight windows. With a gunslinger mentality, Nussmeier has that ‘Brett Favre‘ style that can have big upside but also big lows.

In fact, he needs to take care of the ball as his turnovers are too many, including fumbles. He is a bit of a rollercoaster quarterback in the sense that he can give you incredible drives, and then mind-boggling ones. That’s why sitting behind Mahomes and learning to digest the game from Reid could be huge for him.

Nussmeier is still the Chiefs QB3

Nussmeier might be the shiny toy, but he is third in the pecking order. Obviously, Patrick Mahomes is QB1 of the team. However, he the second quarterback is actually Justin Fields.

Hence, Nussmeier would actually start as QB3, fighting with Chris Oladokun, who played a couple of games last season as Mahomes was injured. Fields signed a two-year deal, so Nussmeier might have to really wait to get his chance.

In the final stages of the 2026 NFL Draft, Andy Reid and the Chiefs decided to add a new quarterback. Garrett Nussmeier joins Kansas City with hopes of eventually becoming a key option to back up Patrick Mahomes.

As of today, Patrick Mahomes remains the starter, although he is still recovering from a torn ACL and LCL suffered in late 2025. Justin Fields is regarded as the QB2, while Chris Oladokun, Jake Haener, and newcomer Garrett Nussmeier compete for the remaining spots on the depth chart.

The Chiefs need a healthy quarterback room

While Andy Reid recently stated that Patrick Mahomes is progressing well with his rehab, the addition of Nussmeier suggests the team is taking no chances at the most vital position in football.

Mahomes is expected to miss the start of the 2026 season, which is why the team signed Justin Fields. However, the former Jets quarterback has faced questions regarding his consistency, and the two injuries he suffered in 2025 have added to the organization’s concerns.

With Chris Oladokun and Jake Haener not yet viewed as reliable long-term replacements, the Chiefs drafted Nussmeier. The hope is that the former LSU standout can impress during the offseason and potentially secure the QB2 role behind Fields for the start of the season.

Kansas City aims for a strong start until Mahomes returns

With Mahomes likely sidelined for the early weeks, the Chiefs need Justin Fields to be as effective as possible. If the season begins poorly, it might be too late to salvage the campaign even once Mahomes returns.

Last year, even with a healthy Mahomes for most of the season, the Chiefs missed the playoffs while the Broncos and Chargers thrived. If Fields struggles, the Chiefs may prioritize long-term health over a lost season, potentially choosing not to risk Mahomes’ recovery if the team is already out of contention.