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Kenneth Walker III Becomes NFL's Highest-Paid Running Back

3/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Kenneth Walker III, the Super Bowl MVP from the Seattle Seahawks, signed a three-year contract with Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL).
The deal is worth up to $45 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL free agency history.
Walker rushed for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns in 2025, including 313 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs, underscoring expected impact for Chiefs.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's 2021 collective bargaining agreement marked a significant shift in player compensation, allowing for increased salaries and longer contracts. For instance, Russell Wilson's annual earnings surpassed $35 million, while Kenneth Walker III signed a $45 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs. This trend reflects the growing financial power of athletes and reshapes team strategies and player negotiations in professional sports.

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Story summary

Kenneth Walker III, the Super Bowl MVP from the Seattle Seahawks, signed a three-year contract with Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL).
The deal is worth up to $45 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL free agency history.
Walker rushed for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns in 2025, including 313 rushing yards and four touchdowns in the playoffs, underscoring expected impact for Chiefs.

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