The Atlanta Falcons just received a significant break ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Kansas City running back Kenneth Walker III has officially been ruled out for Sunday’s game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium after suffering a groin injury during Thursday’s practice. The Chiefs initially listed Walker as questionable, but elected to hold him out rather than risk aggravating the injury.
Walker has been one of the biggest difference-makers in the NFL this season. Through eight games, the former Super Bowl MVP has accumulated 872 rushing yards, averaging 109 yards per game, while scoring seven rushing touchdowns. He has also contributed as a receiver, making him a dangerous dual-threat option for Kansas City.
Kenneth Walker’s absence is significant, especially when looking at how Atlanta has performed defensively through the first nine games of the 2026 season. The Falcons have been somewhat middle-of-the-pack against the run, allowing 118.8 rushing yards per game, ranking 15th in the NFL. Through nine games, opponents have accumulated 1,069 rushing yards against Atlanta. Against the pass, the numbers aren’t dramatically better. Atlanta is surrendering 228.0 passing yards per game, ranking 20th in the league.
Image Courtesy: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
