The Athletic’s 2026 Chiefs Preview: A Revamped Backfield and Persistent Receiver Questions
The Athletic’s upcoming football show has turned its spotlight on the Kansas City Chiefs as they gear up for the 2026 NFL season, emphasizing the team’s strategic pivot toward a more versatile offense.
Central to that narrative is the recent signing of running back Kenneth Walker, a move that comes after the franchise acknowledged a long‑standing deficiency in explosive rushing plays.
Walker’s new contract is viewed as a direct attempt to resurrect the high‑octane ground attack that defined the Chiefs’ 2019‑2020 championship windows, a formula that relied heavily on big‑play runs and play‑action threats.
Analyst Robert Mays points out that the Chiefs have historically operated with a siloed offensive identity, posting a low play‑action rate of just 19.3% and running under center on roughly 80% of snaps.
In 2025 the club introduced a more fluid scheme, increasing optionality and situational flexibility, but the shift has not erased concerns about the receiving corps.
Dave Helman highlights the fragility of that group, noting the possible decline of Rashee Rice due to injury or off‑field issues, and comparing the Chiefs’ depth unfavorably to powerhouses like Miami and Las Vegas.
Adding to the uncertainty, fifth‑round pick Cyrus Allen is being watched closely; his development could provide a spark, yet injury risk remains a lingering question.
The preview also references rookie Xavier Worthy, who may see increased targets as the team seeks to diversify its pass‑catching options.