After a stunningly disappointing 6-11 campaign in 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs are entering the 2026 offseason with a clear directive: fix the offense. While several areas of the roster require attention, the front office has identified the backfield as a primary focal point for improvement. The Kansas City Chiefs running back options are currently being weighed heavily, with the organization considering everything from high-profile trades to top-tier draft prospects.
The 2025 season exposed a lack of consistent explosive playmaking from the rushing attack, a departure from the high-octane units that defined the early years of the Patrick Mahomes era. As the spring approaches, General Manager Brett Veach and the coaching staff are reportedly mulling a variety of paths to revitalize their ground game, ranging from established NFL stars to the next generation of collegiate talent.
The Veteran Trade Market: Kenneth Walker III and Travis Etienne Jr.
If the Chiefs decide to bypass the developmental curve of a rookie, they may look toward established playmakers who could be available via trade or free agency. Two names at the top of the conversation are Kenneth Walker III of the Seattle Seahawks and Travis Etienne Jr. of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Both backs possess the elite speed and vision that the Chiefs' offense lacked during their 6-11 slide.
Kenneth Walker III has proven to be one of the most elusive runners in the league, capable of turning a broken play into a touchdown at any moment. His ability to create yards after contact would provide a significant boost to a Kansas City offensive line that faced heavy boxes throughout 2025. On the other hand, Travis Etienne Jr. offers the dual-threat capability that Andy Reid’s system craves. Etienne’s proficiency as a pass-catcher out of the backfield would give Mahomes a much-needed safety valve and a weapon to exploit mismatches against linebackers.
The acquisition of either player would signal a "win-now" mentality for a franchise eager to erase the memory of a losing season. However, such moves would likely require significant draft capital or salary cap maneuvering, making them high-stakes gambles for the front office.
Exploring the NFL Draft: Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price
For a more cost-effective and long-term solution, the Chiefs are closely scouting the upcoming rookie class. Among the Kansas City Chiefs running back options in the draft, Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love has emerged as a tantalizing prospect. Love’s explosive burst and home-run threat make him a natural fit for a team looking to regain its vertical identity. His teammate, Jadarian Price, is also on the radar as a versatile back who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
Selecting a back like Love would allow the Chiefs to allocate their financial resources toward other needs, such as the defensive secondary or wide receiver depth. The draft provides a unique opportunity to find a fresh set of legs that can grow alongside the existing core of the offense. With the Chiefs picking higher than usual following their 6-11 finish, they are in a prime position to land one of the top-rated runners in the class.
The Future of Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt
The pursuit of new talent inevitably raises questions about the current residents of the Chiefs' locker room. Isiah Pacheco, who has been the emotional heartbeat of the backfield for several seasons, remains a factor. However, injuries and a dip in efficiency during the 2025 season have forced the team to look for complementary pieces or perhaps an outright upgrade. Pacheco’s violent running style is an asset, but the Chiefs appear to be seeking more consistency and a higher ceiling for the position.
Meanwhile, veteran Kareem Hunt provided a steadying presence during his return to Kansas City, but at this stage of his career, he is viewed more as a situational role player than a lead back. The team is also reportedly keeping an eye on Tyler Allgeier, the bruising back from the Atlanta Falcons, as a potential target to provide the short-yardage muscle that was missing in key moments last year.
Key Considerations for the 2026 Offseason
- Explosiveness: The Chiefs ranked in the bottom half of the league in 20-plus yard runs in 2025.
- Versatility: Andy Reid requires a back who can protect the quarterback and catch passes reliably.
- Durability: Improving depth is essential after the backfield was decimated by injuries during the 6-11 campaign.
Conclusion: A Decisive Spring Ahead
The Kansas City Chiefs running back options reflect a team that is not content with standing still. Whether they swing a blockbuster trade for a star like Kenneth Walker III or Travis Etienne Jr., or invest a high draft pick in a player like Jeremiyah Love, change is coming to the Kansas City backfield. After the frustration of a losing season, the Chiefs are determined to find the right workhorse to help lead them back to the top of the AFC West.
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