Kansas City Chiefs rely heavily on running plays for first down
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 20, 2026, 2:04 AM
Last updated Jul 20, 2026
The Kansas City Chiefs have been identified as one of the NFL's most run-heavy teams on first down, utilizing this approach 73 percent of the time. Under center, quarterbacks line up nearly half the time on opening snaps, contrasting with their more passing-focused style. As the 2026 season approaches, the Chiefs may adapt their play-calling, especially with the prospect of Justin Fields and Kenneth Walker III joining the team. Reports suggest that this change could address predictability in their offensive strategies, which has become a concern in recent seasons.
- •Chiefs ran 73 percent on first down last season.
- •Quarterbacks line up under center nearly 49 percent on opening snaps.
- •Possible use of Justin Fields and Kenneth Walker III may alter strategies.
- •Coach Andy Reid known for motion and deception in play-calling.
- •Concerns over predictability in Chiefs' offense noted last season.
- 2:04 AMYahoo Sports — Will These First-Play Trends Change Play-calling For Chiefs?
"The Kansas City Chiefs ran a lot more on first down than most people would think.
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