With Week 10 approaching, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided crucial updates on player injuries as the team gears up for their AFC West matchup against the Denver Broncos. Among the updates, Reid discussed the health of key players, including Patrick Mahomes, who has been dealing with an ankle issue, and wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, whose recovery remains uncertain.
In his Friday press conference, Reid noted that JuJu Smith-Schuster would be the only player ruled out due to a lingering hamstring injury. “JuJu will be the only one that’s out; everybody else practiced,” Reid confirmed, adding that defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton has also returned to practice. “Turk (Wharton) practiced today, so it’s a good thing he’s out there.” Smith-Schuster has been struggling with his hamstring for several weeks, missing multiple games, which has left the Chiefs needing to shuffle their lineup. Reid’s confidence in Wharton’s return to practice signals a positive shift for the team’s defensive lineup as they prepare for a divisional showdown.
A major point of concern for fans and analysts alike has been the health of Patrick Mahomes. Mahomes aggravated his ankle injury in last Monday’s game, raising questions about his ability to play at full strength in the upcoming AFC West showdown. However, Reid provided a reassuring update, noting that Mahomes was a full participant in practices throughout the week and showed no signs of setbacks. “He’s done a good job,” Reid said. “He didn’t miss anything, so he’s done a good job.” This news will be a relief for Chiefs fans as Mahomes is essential to the team’s offensive success and their drive to stay competitive in a challenging AFC.
In Smith-Schuster’s absence, the Chiefs called upon Justyn Ross last week, who contributed in his first active roster appearance this season. Ross is likely to be featured again this week, giving Mahomes another reliable target in the passing game. The Chiefs’ depth in the receiver position has been tested with Smith-Schuster’s hamstring injury, but Ross’s activation has added flexibility to the roster.
As the Chiefs prepare to face their division rival Denver Broncos, the health and readiness of key players like Mahomes and Wharton will be pivotal to their game plan. For Reid and the Chiefs, a fully functional offense and defense are crucial, especially with Mahomes returning to form. The matchup not only offers the Chiefs a chance to strengthen their standing in the AFC West but also an opportunity to fine-tune their game with a healthier roster.
