Andy Reid Sees Shades of Former All-Pro RB in Chiefs Rookie
The Kansas City Chiefs have addressed their long-standing running game weakness by signing Kenneth Walker and drafting Emmett Johnson. Head coach Andy Reid compared Johnson to former All-Pro running back LeSean McCoy, praising his quickness, pass protection, and receiving ability. While Walker is expected to lead in carries, Johnson may contribute significantly as a pass-catcher out of the backfield.
- ▪The Chiefs have not had a 1,000-yard rusher during Patrick Mahomes' eight seasons as starting quarterback.
- ▪Andy Reid noted that Emmett Johnson has lateral quickness and skills reminiscent of LeSean McCoy, particularly in shifting gears and getting upfield.
- ▪Johnson rushed for 1,451 yards and 12 touchdowns at Nebraska and also caught 39 and 46 passes in 2024 and 2025, respectively.
- ▪McCoy had 518 career receptions for 3,898 yards and 16 touchdowns, suggesting Johnson could play a similar receiving role.
- ▪Reid highlighted Johnson's intelligence, pass protection, and catching ability as key strengths for his potential role with the team.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Michael GallagherSports Content CoordinatorShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.If there’s been one weakness of the Kansas City Chiefs during the Patrick Mahomes era, it’s the running game.In his eight seasons as the starting QB, Mahomes has never had a 1,000-yard rusher.But KC took two big steps in remedying that this offseason in signing two-time 1,000-yard rusher and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker and drafting Nebraska running back Emmett Johnson — a player head coach Andy Reid compared to former All-Pro RB LeSean McCoy.“First of all, he’s got a good feel for things, smart kid, good kid,” Reid stated.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Newsweek.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Newsweek
