Chiefs defeat Broncos 31-10 as rookie running back shines in Mahomes' return

Kansas City beat Denver 31-10 on Monday Night Football, marking quarterback Patrick Mahomes' first game back after surgery on his left knee. Mahomes completed two of his first eight passes and added a 15-yard rushing touchdown, showing he is healthy enough to play.

Kenneth Walker III, signed as a free agent from Seattle, led the Chiefs' offense with 173 rushing yards and two scores, accounting for most of the team's early momentum. He recorded 14 carries for 89 yards by halftime and continued to dominate the ground game throughout the contest.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach highlighted the impact of the new offensive staff, including the return of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, and the contributions of rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane and edge rusher R. Mason Thomas, who each made key plays.

Denver offensive coordinator Davis Webb, promoted by head coach Sean Payton, struggled to establish a running game, managing only six rushes for 23 yards in the first half. A missed third-down conversion and a holding penalty on a goal-line play limited the Broncos to a field goal, keeping them out of reach.

The Broncos' defense, which led the league with 68 sacks last season, was unable to contain Walker's runs and allowed multiple big plays, while missing linebacker Jonathan Cooper due to legal issues.

"He's back," Mahomes said after the game, referring to his return from injury.

The victory gave Kansas City its first win of the 2026 season and restored confidence in its revamped offensive strategy.