Two things are obvious today. The Kansas City Chiefs’ superstar QB Patrick Mahomes knows exactly when to turn up the volume, and he just turned it all the way up for star running back Kareem Hunt. The Chiefs have been searching for an extra edge and consistency in the run game, and bringing Hunt back was already a headline move. Mahomes’ public backing just turned it into a statement.
The Chiefs quarterback does not hand out praise lightly. When he takes the time to vouch for someone, it reveals how the locker room truly feels. And this time, he made it clear that Hunt is not a nostalgia signing or a warm body for depth. In Mahomes’ eyes, he is someone who can tilt games when Kansas City needs a closer.
Patrick Mahomes delivered a strong endorsement of Hunt after practice, saying “he’s a warrior” and “someone who truly wants to win.” He added that “he wants to compete” and “he wants to be out there for his guys.” Mahomes wrapped it with the line that Hunt “is going to do whatever it takes to win” and said “you need those guys on your team.”
Mahomes’ backing signals that Kansas City expects Hunt to be a real factor in the stretch run, especially with the ground game still inconsistent. His familiarity with Andy Reid’s system means he can step in without delay, and Mahomes validating him so openly tells you the locker room is already bought in. This endorsement sets the tone for Hunt to carve out meaningful snaps and potentially become the physical spark Kansas City has been missing.
Through the 2025 season so far, Kareem Hunt has logged 116 carries for 457 rushing yards, averaging 3.9 yards per attempt, while punching in 7 rushing touchdowns, a clear sign that Kansas City trusts him in short-yardage and red-zone situations. He has added 13 receptions for 92 yards and a receiving touchdown, giving the Chiefs a steady veteran option in the check-down game.
His Week 12 outing, in which he had 30 carries for 104 yards and a touchdown plus 3 catches for 26 yards, was his most complete performance of the year. In that game, he showcased the physical, grind-it-out style that Andy Reid deploys when he wants to control the clock. The efficiency still sits below league-starter levels, but the touchdown output and usage indicate Hunt is carving out a meaningful, situationally valuable role in the Chiefs’ offense.