Kansas City Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III missed practice on Friday due to a groin injury, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday’s game against the Atlanta Falcons.
The team has not ruled him out, leaving the status of their lead rusher uncertain as the organization prepares for the road trip to Georgia.
Head coach Andy Reid addressed the situation following the missed session, noting that the medical staff would continue to monitor Walker’s progress throughout the weekend. “We’ll see how he feels this afternoon and during the treatments,” Reid said.
The injury timing complicates things for the Chiefs, who currently rely on Walker as the focal point of their ground game. With 872 rushing yards this season, Walker ranks second in the NFL among running backs, trailing only Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons, who has recorded 880 yards.
In his first season with Kansas City after a four-year tenure in Seattle, Walker has established himself as a versatile offensive weapon. He is averaging 5.5 yards per carry and has produced 11 total touchdowns—seven on the ground and four as a receiver. His contribution to the offense is substantial, as he has accounted for 26 receptions and 172 receiving yards in addition to his rushing production.
Should Walker be unable to play on Sunday, Kansas City would likely need to rely more on the passing game due to a significant gap in production behind him at the running back position. Emmett Johnson, currently listed as the team’s second-string option, has recorded 26 carries for 111 yards and one touchdown this season.
The team is expected to provide a final update on Walker’s status either in the coming hours or on Sunday morning before kickoff.
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