Kansas City Chiefs Injury Report Hits Season-High Ahead of Titans Clash

The Kansas City Chiefs face a mounting injury crisis. A season-high five starters missed practice on Wednesday. This comes as the team prepares for a crucial road game against the Tennessee Titans this Sunday.

The situation has accelerated playing time for young backups. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed the team is leaning on its depth during this difficult stretch.

Key Starters Sidelined as Young Players Step Up

The injury list is significant. Wide receivers Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton are both in the NFL‘s concussion protocol. Their absence could open the door for rookie Jalen Royals to see his first offensive targets.

On the offensive line, issues are compounding. Starting right tackle Jawaan Taylor and his primary backup, Jaylon Moore, are dealing with knee injuries. This has given international pathway player Chukwuebuka Godrick a chance to earn critical reps in practice.

The defense is also impacted. Star linebacker Leo Chenal missed work with a shoulder issue. This could mean more snaps for rookie Jeffrey Bassa. Top cornerback Trent McDuffie is also still working back from a knee injury suffered earlier this month.

Mahomes Move Highlights Roster Reshuffle Amid Health Woes

The team made a series of official roster moves related to the health issues. As reported by the Associated Press, the Chiefs placed quarterback Patrick Mahomes on injured reserve. This procedural move created a roster spot for defensive tackle Zacch Pickens.

In more positive news, the Chiefs opened practice windows for two players. Tight end Jake Briningstool and cornerback Nazeeh Johnson can now practice. The team has 21 days to activate them to the active roster.

Veteran wide receiver Hollywood Brown returned to practice. He had missed recent time for personal reasons. Defensive tackle Chris Jones was a limited participant as he manages a hamstring injury.

The sheer volume of the Kansas City Chiefs injury report has forced a major youth movement. Their final playoff seeding may now depend on how well these untested players perform under pressure.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Is Patrick Mahomes out for the season?

The Chiefs placed Mahomes on injured reserve. This move ends his regular season. He could potentially return if the team makes a deep playoff run.

Q2: Who will start at quarterback for the Chiefs?

Veteran Gardner Minshew is now the starting quarterback. The team is expected to elevate Chris Oladokun from the practice squad to serve as his backup for Sunday’s game.

Q3: Which key Chiefs players are injured?

The list includes WRs Rashee Rice and Tyquan Thornton, LB Leo Chenal, CB Trent McDuffie, and RT Jawaan Taylor. DT Chris Jones is also managing a hamstring issue.

Q4: What does this mean for the Chiefs’ playoff chances?

It complicates their path. While they are likely to make the playoffs, securing a higher seed becomes much harder without several key starters on the field for the final games.

Q5: Are any injured players close to returning?

Yes. Tight end Jake Briningstool and cornerback Nazeeh Johnson have begun practicing again. The team has three weeks to decide whether to activate them to the active roster.