The Kansas City Chiefs are kicking off their 2026 preseason like a bad dream, dropping their first game 20-12 to the Los Angeles Rams at Arrowhead Stadium. I mean, after that soul-crushing 14-12 loss to the Raiders last season, you’d hope for a better start, right? But despite the scoreboard, the real story coming out of this one might be rookie running back Emmett Johnson, who absolutely tore it up for 59 yards on just 12 attempts. Yeah, you read that right.
The Ground Game is Getting Real
Look, Andy Reid sat starting running back Kenneth Walker III, who they just picked up in free agency this offseason. So, while other guys like Emari Demarcado and Brashard Smith were basically no-shows, Johnson stepped up big time. When you see what this kid did and then picture him next to Walker, it’s not hard to imagine a one-two punch that could leave defenses seeing stars. It’s obvious the Chiefs went all-in on their running game this offseason. And honestly, it makes total sense with Patrick Mahomes coming back from an ACL injury. You gotta protect your franchise QB, and a strong run game means he’s not under constant pressure. This isn’t just a pretty stat line from a rookie, it’s a peek at a whole new offensive approach that could change everything for them this season.
Backup QB Watch: One Guy Gets It, One Doesn’t
Alright, let’s talk quarterbacks. Remember how I griped last season that Chris Oladokun and Shane Buechele didn’t look like NFL backup material? Well, Justin Fields is giving me déjà vu. He looked completely indecisive out there, just couldn’t get the ball out of his hand unless someone was wide open. He completed all four of his passes for 41 yards, sure, but that’s because he flat-out refused to throw otherwise. You can’t live like that in this league, man. If he doesn’t trust himself to make a throw, why should the coach?
Then there’s Garrett Nussmeier. Totally different vibe. He looked composed and confident. Yeah, he had a couple of rookie moments , a bad sack, left some receivers hanging dry , but overall, there was way more good than bad. Those mistakes are learning moments, plain and simple. It’s early, and everything can flip in a couple of weeks, but right now, Nussmeier seems like the clear guy who understands what it takes to be a reliable backup.
So, the Chiefs are 0-1, but you can’t help but look at Johnson’s game and Nussmeier’s flashes and get a little excited about what’s coming. The preseason is all about finding those gems and figuring out who’s ready for prime time. The next few weeks are going to be critical for these guys trying to lock down roster spots, and I’m definitely keeping an eye on how that running game develops.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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