NFL

Chiefs Running Back Kenneth Walker III Questionable for Falcons Clash

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 14, 2026, 02:43 IST

Kansas City Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons after missing Friday's practice due to a groin injury.

Chiefs Running Back Kenneth Walker III Questionable for Falcons Clash

The Kansas City Chiefs are facing uncertainty in their backfield ahead of Sunday's showdown with the Atlanta Falcons, as star running back Kenneth Walker III has been officially listed as questionable. The injury concern emerged late in the week when Walker reported tightness in his groin during the team's final practice session on Friday.

Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that the decision to hold Walker out of the final practice was a precautionary measure. The team is currently monitoring his recovery through rehabilitation sessions to determine if he will be fit to participate in the upcoming contest. Reid emphasized that the organization will not take unnecessary risks with the player's health, stating that his availability will depend on his progress over the coming hours.

Potential Backfield Shift and Roster Updates

Should Walker be ruled out, the Chiefs are prepared to lean on rookie running back Emmett Johnson. The fifth-round draft pick has shown promise in his limited opportunities this season, contributing 111 rushing yards and a touchdown on 26 carries, alongside 237 receiving yards and another score on 14 catches. Right guard Trey Smith expressed confidence in the rookie, highlighting Johnson's high energy and dedication as he prepares for the possibility of his first career start.

The team also received positive news regarding wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who is expected to be available despite exiting last week's victory over the Jets with a hamstring issue. This return provides a boost to the receiving corps, which recently added Josh Downs following a trade with the Indianapolis Colts. Reid noted that Downs has impressed the coaching staff with his ability to quickly digest the playbook, and the team anticipates he will be ready to contribute immediately.

While the offense navigates these adjustments, the defensive side of the ball sees the return of first-round cornerback Mansoor Delane, who has recovered from a shoulder injury. However, the Chiefs are expected to be without right tackle Jaylon Moore, who is dealing with an ankle injury, and Peter Woods, who remains sidelined with a neck issue. Walker, who signed a three-year, $43.05 million deal in March, currently sits second in the NFL with 872 rushing yards, trailing only Atlanta's Bijan Robinson.