Chiefs lauded over $45 million free agency signing

The Kansas City Chiefs knew that fixing the run game this offseason was near the top of the to-do list, and general manager Brett Veach didn't waste any time overhauling it.

The Chiefs were proactive on the first day of free agency and signed Seattle Seahawks running back and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker to a three-year deal that can rise up to $45 million.

Kansas City now has its star back to help ease the offensive load on Patrick Mahomes, who is returning from a torn ACL.

And NFL.com's Matt Okada had labeled the move by the Chiefs as a "smart" one.

Over the last two seasons, Chiefs running backs have ranked fourth-worst in rushing yards per game (75.3), second-worst in yards per carry (3.7) and second-worst in explosive run rate (8.8%)," Okada wrote. "That won't be the case anymore -- not with the reigning Super Bowl MVP joining Patrick Mahomes in a fresh offense run by returning coordinator Eric Bieniemy."

More: Commanders make sneaky great free agent signing for Jayden Daniels

Chiefs a different beast with Walker

Defenses now won't be able to drop into coverage to stifle Kansas City's receivers in Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, Tyquan Thornton, and even Travis Kelce.

Why? Because Walker facing a light box, with Andy Reid and Eric Bieniemy's offensive wizardry, is nightmare fuel for a defense.

So, teams are going to have to commit to stopping the run. Which means more space and fewer defenders for the Chiefs' passing weapons to have to negotiate.

After years of a so-so run game, the Chiefs just got a huge upgrade.

Is Walker a smart signing? It feels like it right now, but time will tell if he is the difference-maker we think he is.

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