The Kansas City Chiefs started the 2026 NFL season on a high note with a 31-10 victory over the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium during the first Monday Night Football game. The highly anticipated return of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, nine months after an ACL and LCL tear, was a success. Mahomes looked sharp but the real star was running back Kenneth Walker, who dominated the game.
Kenneth Walker, coming off a Super Bowl victory and MVP award, accumulated 191 total yards, with 173 rushing and 18 receiving, and scored two touchdowns. His performance overshadowed the entire Denver offense led by Broncos’ new offensive coordinator Davis Webb.
The game began with a significant play from Chiefs rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane, who intercepted Denver’s Bo Nix and shifted momentum in Kansas City’s favor. Mahomes converted this turnover into an early 15-yard touchdown scramble.
Kansas City continued to press their advantage, with head coach Andy Reid opting for a gutsy fourth-and-1 play at their 40-yard line. Walker received the handoff and dashed 60 yards to score, marking the first time a Chiefs running back exceeded 140 rushing yards and a touchdown in a game since Kareem Hunt in 2017.
Denver struggled throughout the night. Despite a fleeting moment in the first quarter when Nix connected with Evan Engram for a touchdown, the Broncos’ offense faced hurdles and couldn’t maintain momentum. They followed a series of punts leading to halftime and failed to capitalize on a key opportunity when safety Brandon Jones intercepted Patrick Mahomes, setting a first-and-goal at the Kansas City 5-yard line. Instead of leveling the game, a penalty and ensuing misstep limited them to a field goal instead.
As the game progressed, Denver faced more challenges. A fumble by Nix allowed Kansas City’s Chris Jones to set up another touchdown catch for Walker, further extending the Chiefs’ lead.
Travis Kelce also reached a significant career milestone during the match. He recorded a notable 59-yard catch-and-run, surpassing Jason Witten for second place in NFL history for receiving yards among tight ends. He now trails only Tony Gonzalez in that category.
In attendance were notable personalities, including Taylor Swift and Tom Cruise, watching the Chiefs reaffirm their dominance in the AFC West. Despite Denver’s changes and efforts, the division remains firmly under Kansas City’s control.
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