Kenneth Walker III is looking to repeat as a Super Bowl champion—but this time with a franchise that has won three titles in the past four seasons.
The 25-year-old running back, fresh off winning Super Bowl LX MVP with the Seattle Seahawks, has signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he is expected to become the team’s RB1.
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Walker reportedly agreed to a three-year deal worth $45 million, including $27 million guaranteed. The contract makes him the highest-paid free-agent running back in NFL history.
While the move is a major boost for Kansas City, it is a significant loss for Seattle. Still, some analysts believe the departure was expected. Walker III was allowed to walk in free agency due to contract issues. His rookie deal expired on Feb. 8—the same day he led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots.
Kenneth Walker III celebrates Super Bowl LX win with Seattle Seahawks fansSteven Bisig-Imagn Images
(Steven Bisig-Imagn Images)
Seattle also chose not to place the franchise tag on the 25-year-old running back, who rushed for a season-high 135 yards during the Super Bowl at Levi’s Stadium.
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The Michigan State standout will continue wearing No. 9 with the Chiefs—a fitting number for the way he plays on the gridiron. Nicknamed “K9,” Walker is widely regarded as a “dawg,” an edge Kansas City hopes will strengthen its offense next season.
Although it is still the offseason, Walker III is already busy getting acclimated to his new team. The Chiefs recently announced that K9 has arrived in Kansas.
Walker III previously received a warm welcome from his future backfield partner and superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
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The Chiefs are aiming for a bounce-back 2026 season after missing the playoffs in 2025, largely due to injuries to several key players. Among the most notable were running back Isiah Pacheco (knee), wide receiver Rashee Rice (hamstring), and wide receiver Nikko Remigio (knee and shoulder).
Star quarterback Patrick Mahomes played just 14 games and was shut down on Dec. 14 after suffering a torn ACL.
Kansas City has also made several announcements this week. In addition to signing Walker, the team re-signed long snapper James Winchester, while franchise legend and tight end Travis Kelceconfirmed he is returning for another season.
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Related: Chiefs Send Message After Travis Kelce’s Offseason Decision
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.