Chiefs open season with 31-10 win as Mahomes returns and Walker debuts
Patrick Mahomes returned from knee surgery as Kenneth Walker III rushed for 173 yards and two touchdowns in Kansas City’s victory over Denver.
The Kansas City Chiefs began their season with a 31-10 victory over the Denver Broncos, combining Patrick Mahomes’ return from knee surgery with a standout debut from running back Kenneth Walker III.
Mahomes, who underwent surgery in December to repair a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee, ran for a 15-yard touchdown on his 10th snap after completing a nine-month rehabilitation. Kansas City never trailed.
Walker carried much of the Chiefs’ offensive workload, recording a career-high 173 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He finished with 191 all-purpose yards from 26 touches, including a 60-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-inches early in the third quarter.
Kansas City’s approach reflected the circumstances around Mahomes’ return and a reshaped offensive line. The Chiefs used 31 designed runs against 27 passing attempts, while undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson made his NFL debut at left tackle in place of Josh Simmons.
The performance gave Kansas City control of the opener and eased the burden on Mahomes as he regained his passing rhythm after half-time. ESPN reported that he completed seven of nine attempts for 122 yards in the second half.
