NFL

Patrick Mahomes can see defenses respecting the Chiefs’ run game

September 23, 2026

Patrick Mahomes has noticed opposing defenses starting to show extra respect to the ground game deployed by the Kansas City Chiefs. The franchise shifted its strategic focus during the offseason toward a heavily run-centric attack by acquiring running back Kenneth Walker III.

This altered offensive identity has helped the team navigate the early part of the schedule successfully, including a dramatic overtime victory against the Indianapolis Colts where the offensive line earned strong marks for keeping the star quarterback clean.

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