The Kansas City Chiefs hit the practice for the first time this week as they prepare for the AFC Championship vs. the Baltimore Ravens this weekend but start the week with an unideal number of players who did not participate.
The Chiefs release three injury reports every week leading up to the Saturday before the game. According to the injury report on Wednesday afternoon, six players were missing from practice.
Head coach Andy Reid spoke to reporters before practice and gave a quick rundown of the injuries the Chiefs are facing. Wide receiver Skyy Moore, who was taken off of injury reserve last week, is still working through some issues with his knee.
Defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi continues to rehab a tricep injury that held him out of the Chiefs’ divisional victory over Buffalo last week. Safety Mike Edwards remains in concussion protocol since leaving the Bills game early. Running back Isiah Pacheco has a hurt toe, but Reid explained it is getting better.
Additionally, left guard Joe Thuney did not practice with a pectoral injury he sustained against the Bills, and Trey Smith was out with an illness.
Several of the players missing from practice are key starters the Chiefs will need to have available for when they finally play the Ravens on Sunday. However, Thuney will be the primary player to keep an eye on. According to reports per Adam Schefter of ESPN, Thuney is not expected to suit up for the Chiefs, meaning backup Nick Allegretti will be assigned to protect Patrick Mahomes and prevent Baltimore’s defense from penetrating the interior of the offensive line from the left guard spot.
Thuney is reportedly doing everything he can to get his body well enough to play, but it seems like an uphill battle at this point of the week.
Thuney started every game for the Chiefs this season and was named a first-team All-Pro earlier this month. His absence from the o-line against one of the top defenses in the NFL could be a major blow to Kansas City’s offense as the Chiefs try to make it to their fourth Super Bowl in five seasons.
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