Unfolding the biggest x factor for the Chiefs
By: Jake Rajala
The Kansas City Chiefs have a fine 1-2 punch at the running back spot. Sure, they don’t have a Jamaal Charles-quality ball-carrier. They can make up for it with Kenneth Walker and Emari Demercado.
We all recognize Walker for being the lead back for the reigning Super Bowl Champions (Seahawks) last season. He unleashed 135 rushing yards in the big dance last season. He registered over 1k yards rushing on the season!
So, the question is: who in the hell is Emari Demercado? Well, he is going to be the biggest surprise in 2026. He comes from Arizona Cardinals. He is in his best situation as a pro, in Andy Reid’s scheme. He unveiled 312 rushing yards a season ago. Yes, that isn’t a lot. However, he recorded 7 YPC! Yes, you read that correctly. He is 27 years old, so he has a few seasons left in the tank.
Emari didn’t have enough snaps to garner a PFF grade last season.
Emari isn’t the only x-factor in a Chiefs uniform on offense, truth be told. I believe Xavier Worthy will go from a modest weapon to a pro bowler. The Chiefs WR3 is Tyquan Thornton and he isn’t a star. It’s extra important that Emari makes plays the receiving game and in space.
It’s crucial that these young, skill players step up. Travis Kelce will likely be playing his last season in 2026-2027. I wouldn’t mind seeing the Chiefs reunite with Tyreek Hill, to help the Chiefs offense.
I don’t want to see the Chiefs bring in another RB to join the party. Walker is already a bell-cow RB. He doesn’t need a lot of help from a RB2.
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