Kansas City Chiefs running back Kenneth Walker III has emerged as a key figure in the team’s undefeated start this NFL season, although his name remains conspicuously absent from most MVP discussions. Walker, who was traded from the Seattle Seahawks to the Chiefs in the offseason, has been a dominant force on the field, contributing significantly to Kansas City’s 4-0 record while Seattle has struggled, losing three games. His outstanding performance places him among the elite in NFL history, as he is now the fourth player to have recorded at least 175 scrimmage yards in three games before Week 5 of a season. Additionally, Walker has extended a personal winning streak to 14 consecutive games dating back to last season.
Despite these achievements, sportsbooks currently list Walker well behind Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen and San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy in the MVP odds, with Allen favored at +250 and Purdy close behind at +300. Walker’s odds sit at +5500, underscoring the rarity of running backs breaking through in the MVP race in recent years.
In other NFL news and betting insights for the upcoming weekend’s games, several matchups draw attention:
The Houston Texans are favored to continue their resurgence, facing the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. C.J. Stroud of the Jaguars holds the league’s second-highest average air yards per attempt, but Jacksonville’s defense ranks poorly against deep passes.
The Indianapolis Colts are expected to prevail over the Tennessee Titans, led by head coach Shane Steichen, who boasts a perfect 6-0 record against the Colts with an average victory margin exceeding 10 points. This matchup pits two struggling teams, with questions around Tennessee’s recent offensive issues.
The Chicago Bears, boosted by the probable return of quarterback Caleb Williams, are favored against the Atlanta Falcons. The Bears’ offense is averaging significantly more yards per play with Williams under center compared to backup quarterbacks.
In Philadelphia, the Panthers are set to challenge the Eagles, who are coming off close losses and face increasing scrutiny over coaching decisions. The Panthers’ emphasis on play-action passes could exploit Philadelphia’s known vulnerabilities.
Other notable picks include the Baltimore Ravens over the Cleveland Browns, even with Lamar Jackson sidelined, as the team appears to have regained its composure following recent close wins. The New York Jets are considered a potential upset threat against the New England Patriots, who have shown inconsistency despite a recent strong performance.
The Los Angeles Rams, buoyed by strong performances against the Arizona Cardinals last season and the Cardinals’ ongoing defensive struggles, are favored to win convincingly. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills are expected to face a tougher challenge on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders, partly due to the short week following an emotional victory.
On Monday night, the San Francisco 49ers, who have consistently exceeded expectations against the spread, host the Washington Commanders, a team recently criticized for gameplay decisions.
As the season progresses, Walker’s contributions remain one of the notable storylines, even if recognition in the MVP race lags behind the usual quarterback frontrunners.