The Kansas City Chiefs opened their 2026 NFL season with a commanding 31-10 victory over the Denver Broncos at Arrowhead Stadium, as Patrick Mahomes made a successful return from a serious knee injury.
Mahomes, back after missing the end of last season with a torn ACL and LCL, accounted for three touchdowns. He threw for 184 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for a score as the Chiefs took control after a 7-7 opening quarter.
Kenneth Walker III was the standout performer in his Chiefs debut. The running back, who joined Kansas City after winning Super Bowl MVP with Seattle last season, rushed for 173 yards and a touchdown, including a spectacular 60-yard score in the third quarter. He later added a two-yard touchdown reception in the fourth.
Kansas City’s defence also played a major role, restricting Denver to 176 total yards and forcing two turnovers. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix completed 17 of 28 passes for 131 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
The Chiefs led 14-7 at half-time before pulling away in the third quarter. Walker’s long touchdown run helped extend their advantage, while Harrison Butker added a field goal before Kansas City closed out the game with another touchdown in the final quarter.
The victory also gave Kansas City an early AFC West boost after Denver had taken the division title last season. Travis Kelce added 71 receiving yards and moved to second on the NFL’s all-time list for receiving yards by a tight end, surpassing Jason Witten.
The Chiefs will next host the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, while the Broncos will face the Jacksonville Jaguars in their home opener.
