kansascity
The Kansas City Chiefs will be without running back Kenneth Walker when they face the Atlanta Falcons on the road in Week 10. The team officially ruled Walker out on Saturday, downgrading him from questionable after he reported groin tightness to the athletic training staff on Friday morning.
Head coach Andy Reid explained that Walker was held out of practice as a precaution. "We're kind of feeling it out just to see where we're at with that thing," Reid said. "We're not going to put him at risk or anything like that — that's not how we roll. If he can go, he can go. If he can't, he can't. It will be one of those."
With Walker unavailable, rookie running back Emmett Johnson is expected to make his first career start. Johnson, who has yet to start an NFL game, will step into a larger role against the Falcons.
The Chiefs also made roster moves to bolster their running back depth. Third-string running back Jaydn Ott is dealing with a hamstring injury, prompting Kansas City to activate 2025 undrafted free agent Nate Carter from the practice squad. Additionally, wide receiver Jacob De Jesus was elevated from the practice squad.
De Jesus, who returned a team-high six punts during the preseason, could handle punt return duties. With Nikko Remigio waived and subsequently claimed by the Houston Texans, De Jesus is a candidate to fill that role. Wide receiver Josh Downs, who is set to make his Chiefs debut, could also factor in as a return man.
In other news, defensive tackle Chris Jones will travel separately for personal reasons but is expected to join the team in Atlanta.
Key Analysis
The Chiefs' decision to rule out Walker underscores their cautious approach to player health, especially with a rookie like Johnson ready to step in. Johnson's first start will be a significant test against a Falcons defense that has shown flashes of toughness. The activation of Carter and De Jesus provides necessary depth, but the punt return situation bears watching as De Jesus and Downs vie for opportunities. Kansas City's ability to adapt on the fly will be crucial in maintaining their offensive rhythm.
Originally reported by kansascity.