Kenneth Walker III Injury Update: Chiefs Rule Out Star RB For Atlanta Game

Kenneth Walker III Ruled Out For Chiefs-Falcons Game© Instagram

Kenneth Walker III will miss Sunday's game in Atlanta after the Chiefs downgraded him from questionable to out Saturday with a groin injury. The decision leaves rookie Emmett Johnson preparing to lead Kansas City's backfield against the Falcons.

Walker reported tightness Friday morning and sat out the final practice of the week. Kansas City initially left open the possibility of him playing, but decided against it a day later. NFL Network and ESPN reported that the Chiefs were taking a cautious approach after he strained his groin during Thursday's practice.

Walker's Absence Takes Away Kansas City's Leading Rusher

Walker has rushed for 872 yards in eight games during his first season with the Chiefs. Only Atlanta's Bijan Robinson, with 880, has more, meaning Sunday's meeting will go ahead without one half of its anticipated running back matchup.

The former Seattle star has averaged 5.5 yards per carry and scored seven rushing touchdowns. His production has helped Kansas City reach 6–2, most recently with a 35–12 victory over the Jets.

Andy Reid said Walker had “tweaked” his groin before arriving at the facility Friday with tightness. The Chiefs have ruled him out for Atlanta without announcing a return date.

His absence comes alongside another change on offense. Right tackle Jaylon Moore is out with an ankle injury, leaving Josh Ezeudu likely to start in his place.

Kansas City has topped 150 rushing yards five times this season. Keeping that part of the offense going now falls largely to a rookie who has carried the ball just 26 times.

Emmett Johnson Gets His Biggest Opportunity Yet

Reid said Johnson “would take the bulk of the carries” if Walker could not play.

Johnson has turned his limited rushing opportunities into 111 yards and a touchdown. That score came in the fourth quarter against New York last weekend, and he now steps into a considerably larger assignment.

The Chiefs elevated Nate Carter from the practice squad to provide another option. Jaydn Ott's availability remains uncertain: he was listed as questionable with a hamstring injury after limited practices Thursday and Friday.

Atlanta has allowed at least 120 rushing yards in four of its last five games, giving Johnson an opening to contribute. The Falcons can also pressure quarterbacks without frequently blitzing, making the ground game especially useful with Moore unavailable.

Patrick Mahomes should have Xavier Worthy available after the receiver's hamstring scare against the Jets. Newly acquired receiver Josh Downs is also preparing for his first appearance with Kansas City.