Kansas City Chiefs Elevate Receivers Amid Injury Crisis Before Christmas Showdown

The Kansas City Chiefs made critical roster moves on Christmas Day. They elevated two players from the practice squad for their primetime game against the Denver Broncos. The moves address immediate injury concerns at wide receiver and offensive tackle. The game kicks off at 7:15 p.m. CT from Arrowhead Stadium.

This comes after the team placed two key receivers on injured reserve. According to official team reports, Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton are out with concussions. The Chiefs’ offense now faces a significant challenge during the holiday fixture.

Brownlee and Waletzko Step Into Critical Roles

Wide receiver Jason Brownlee was elevated to the active roster. The Southern Miss product initially joined the Chiefs’ practice squad during last year’s playoffs. He showed promise in the preseason and even made the initial 53-man roster this fall.

Brownlee played in five early-season games. He was released when Rashee Rice returned from suspension. He was quickly re-signed to the practice squad. His last NFL catch came in December 2023 as a member of the New York Jets.

The team also elevated offensive tackle Matt Waletzko. The North Dakota standout provides crucial depth on a battered offensive line. He was elevated last week but did not see game action against the Titans.

Waletzko has 11 games of NFL experience. He was a fifth-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2022. He spent time on the Minnesota Vikings‘ practice squad before joining Kansas City earlier this month.

Offensive Line Depth Tested Ahead of Playoff Push

The Chiefs’ tackle situation is incredibly thin. Multiple starters have been injured in recent weeks. Backup Wanya Morris suffered a season-ending knee injury against the Detroit Lions.

The team finished its Thanksgiving game in Dallas with backups at both tackle spots. Rookie Esa Pole and International Pathway player Chu Godrick have been forced into action. This week’s elevation of Waletzko is a necessary insurance policy.

These injuries come at a pivotal time. The Chiefs are fighting to secure playoff positioning in the AFC. Every game, including this Christmas clash with a division rival, carries immense weight. The team’s ability to adapt will be tested.

The Kansas City Chiefs have tapped into their practice squad depth to weather a storm of injuries. Their performance on Christmas could hinge on these recent additions. The team’s resilience is now under the national spotlight.

Dropping this nugget your way

Who did the Chiefs elevate for the Christmas game?

The Chiefs elevated wide receiver Jason Brownlee and offensive tackle Matt Waletzko from the practice squad. Both players provide depth at positions hit hard by recent injuries.

Why did Kansas City make these roster moves?

The moves are a direct response to injuries. Receivers Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton were placed on injured reserve with concussions, creating an immediate need.

Has Jason Brownlee played for the Chiefs before?

Yes. Brownlee made the team’s initial roster this season and played in five early games. He was re-signed to the practice squad after being released in October.

What is the state of the Chiefs’ offensive line?

The tackle position is particularly thin. Starter Wanya Morris is out for the season, and the team has used multiple backups in recent weeks, testing their depth significantly.

What channel is the Chiefs vs. Broncos game on?

The Christmas Day game will be broadcast on Prime Video and NBC. Local viewers in Kansas City can watch on KSHB-TV, Channel 41.