Running back Kenneth Walker III is questionable for the Kansas City Chiefs” upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons due to a groin injury that forced him to miss Friday’s practice. Head coach Andy Reid stated the team will evaluate the injury over the weekend before making a final decision on his availability.
Groin Injury Sidelines Walker Before Falcons Game
The Kansas City Chiefs’ listed running back Kenneth Walker III as questionable for Sunday’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons after he missed the final practice of the week due to a groin injury, espndeportes.espn.com reported. Walker informed the coaching staff about stiffness in his groin area prior to the morning walkthrough on Friday.
Head coach Andy Reid addressed the precautionary measure with reporters before the team took the field.
“Veremos cómo se siente a lo largo de esta tarde, durante su rehabilitación, y también mañana,” Reid said, according to espndeportes.espn.com. “En algún momento sufrió una molestia. Estamos evaluando la situación para ver en qué estado se encuentra. No vamos a correr riesgos innecesarios. Si puede jugar, jugará; si no, pues no.”
Walker joined Kansas City in March on a three-year contract worth $43.05 million. He enters the contest with 872 rushing yards, which ranks second in the NFL behind Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, who has 880 yards.
Emmett Johnson Lines Up for Expanded Role
If Walker cannot play on Sunday, rookie running back Emmett Johnson is expected to handle a heavier workload for the Chiefs. Selected in the fifth round of the draft, Johnson has contributed 111 rushing yards and one touchdown on 26 carries across eight games, alongside 237 receiving yards and one touchdown on 14 catches.
Teammates voiced confidence in the rookie’s preparation as he prepares for a potential start.
“Estará listo para jugar,” right guard Trey Smith said, according to espndeportes.espn.com. “Me gusta Emmett; tiene mucha chispa y energía. Desborda entusiasmo, emoción y una actitud positiva. Se nota que quiere ser excelente y que trabaja duro para lograrlo. Realmente le importa; me alegro mucho por él. Es fácil apoyar a chicos así.”
Roster Adjustments Ahead of Sunday
The Chiefs anticipate the return of wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who left last week’s win over the New York Jets in the second half due to a hamstring injury. His presence should stabilize the offense alongside newly acquired wide receiver Josh Downs, who is set to play after arriving from the Indianapolis Colts before the NFL trade deadline on Tuesday.
“Creo que hizo un buen trabajo considerando lo que le pedimos: asimilar todo en un par de días,” Reid said, according to espndeportes.espn.com.
“Es un chico inteligente y sabe jugar. Ha estado en activo, lo cual es excelente, y además a un gran nivel. Se adaptó a lo que le solicitamos y cumplió bien. Creo que está listo para jugar con nosotros.”
Downs recorded 33 receptions for 354 yards and one touchdown in nine games with Indianapolis. Kansas City also expects first-round cornerback Mansoor Delane to return from a shoulder injury that kept him out for two games, though tackle Jaylon Moore (ankle) and defensive lineman Peter Woods (neck) are unlikely to play.
Chiefs evaluate Walker's injury before Sunday decision
When will the Chiefs make a final decision on Kenneth Walker III?
Head coach Andy Reid stated the team will evaluate Walker’s groin injury through rehabilitation sessions on Friday afternoon and Saturday before deciding his playing status for Sunday.
Who leads the NFL in rushing yards entering the weekend?
Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson leads the league with 880 rushing yards, while Kenneth Walker III sits second with 872 yards.
What are Emmett Johnson’s stats this season?
Over eight games, Johnson has rushed for 111 yards and one touchdown on 26 carries, while adding 237 receiving yards and one touchdown on 14 receptions.
How many yards did Josh Downs record with Indianapolis?
Downs tallied 33 receptions for 354 yards and one touchdown across nine games with the Colts prior to his trade to Kansas City.
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