Kansas City Chiefs sign Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker in NFL free agency
Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III has agreed to join the Kansas City Chiefs as the 2026 NFL free agency period opens with a flurry of major running back moves.
The highly sought-after rusher arrives in Missouri following a stellar campaign where he recorded the second 1,000-yard season of his four-year professional career.
His addition addresses a critical area of need for a franchise attempting to rebound from a highly disappointing 6-11 record in 2025.
The Chiefs have not featured a 1,000-yard rusher since Kareem Hunt achieved the feat nine years ago.
Kansas City are also anticipating the return of star quarterback Patrick Mahomes from a knee injury in September, providing hope for a revitalised offence.
Dowdle heads to Pittsburgh
In another significant backfield shift, Rico Dowdle has agreed to a two-year contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The dynamic runner is expected to bring a decisive, straight-line rushing style to Mike McCarthy’s newly reshaped squad.
Dowdle previously enjoyed a breakout stretch with the Carolina Panthers, proving his capability as a versatile offensive weapon in both the running and passing games.
He will likely form a formidable split-backfield partnership alongside Jaylen Warren in Pennsylvania.
Etienne swaps Jacksonville for New Orleans
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints have bolstered their offensive arsenal by acquiring 27-year-old Travis Etienne Jr.
The former Jacksonville Jaguar finished the 2025 season as a top-tier running back, regaining much of the elite volume he demonstrated in 2023.
His arrival adds immediate pedigree and top-end speed to a Saints rushing attack looking to dominate the upcoming campaign.