Chiefs credit Kenneth Walker III for offensive boost in 2-0 start

Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes highlighted running back Kenneth Walker III’s contribution after the Chiefs defeated the Indianapolis Colts 33-30 in overtime on Sunday. Walker amassed 178 all-purpose yards, the second consecutive game with at least 175 yards, and led all NFL skill players with 369 all-purpose yards through the team’s 2-0 start.

Mahomes said, "It’s fun for me… Him running the ball and our offensive line driving off the ball the way they’re driving off, it’s making the defense have to account for that. We showcased that we can throw the ball down the field, we can play action and can also still run the ball."

Coach Andy Reid noted the Colts’ five-man front and praised the mix of screens and play-action that allowed Walker to exceed 100 yards, adding, "They packed five guys in there… that’s a good front, so we knew it was going to be tough, but we had a good mix going."

Walker, who recorded nine receptions for 79 yards in two games, said his conditioning helped him improve after halftime. Mahomes credited Walker’s running for opening play-action opportunities that benefited tight end Travis Kelce, who posted 101 receiving yards and a touchdown.

In the overtime period, Mahomes completed a short pass to Walker on a third-and-1 play, resulting in a 22-yard gain that set up kicker Harrison Butker’s 40-yard field goal for the win.