Where Kansas City stands as it prepares for the Miami game.
The Kansas City Chiefs practiced again on Tuesday as they prepare to face the Miami Dolphins in the NFL playoffs’ Wild Card round. There are various items to keep an eye on before starting the game, which we shall go over here.
Injuries we’re monitoring
As Kansas City embarks on its preparations for the upcoming matchup against the Miami Dolphins, the team faces a few noteworthy developments. Following their return to practice on Tuesday, the Chiefs are gearing up for the Wild Card round of the NFL playoffs. Various factors are worth monitoring as the game approaches.
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In the aftermath of Week 18, the Chiefs encountered three injuries. Left tackle Wanya Morris sustained a concussion, wide receiver Justyn Ross strained his hamstring, and cornerback Jaylen Watson injured his calf. While Watson participated in Tuesday’s practice, Morris and Ross were absent.
LT Donovan Smith (No. 79) is back to work Tuesday, but the key here will be his availability on Wednesday. Smith practiced the first day last week before not working again. He hasn’t played since Week 13 due to a neck injury.
LT Wanya Morris is in the concussion protocol. pic.twitter.com/p7aB4soKyk
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) January 9, 2024
Morris must complete the concussion protocol stages to become eligible for the game. The return of Donovan Smith, who started at left tackle in Weeks 14 to 17 during Smith’s neck injury, is a positive development for the Chiefs. While Tuesday marks a step in the right direction, Wednesday will be a crucial day to monitor Smith’s status.
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney, dealing with hip and ankle issues, was present at practice but seemed to undergo a limited session during the media-viewable portion. Head coach Andy Reid acknowledged Toney’s ongoing struggles with injuries but mentioned a slight improvement this week.
Safety Bryan Cook (ankle) and running back Jerick McKinnon (groin) remain on injured reserve. Reid expressed a lack of optimism about Cook’s potential return in the postseason, and McKinnon was observed at the facility using crutches.
On a more positive note, other players with potential injury concerns, including running back Isiah Pacheco, wide receiver Rashee Rice, linebacker Nick Bolton, cornerback Trent McDuffie, and cornerback L’Jarius Sneed, were actively participating in Tuesday’s practice.
Wide receiver Mecole Hardman’s role is something to watch
Our primary film analyst, Ron Kopp, has highlighted the positive developments observed in Hardman’s performance during Week 18 against the Los Angeles Chargers. On Sunday, Hardman demonstrated notable skill, and there is a possibility that Kansas City might opt to prominently feature him in some capacity during the upcoming playoffs on Saturday.
Reid expressed satisfaction with Hardman’s return to action and the consistency he displayed in a few snaps. The head coach affirmed the intention to incorporate him into the game plan for the playoffs without any negative impact on his condition.
Reid, recognizing Hardman’s time on injured reserve due to a thumb injury, mentioned that the decision to play him in 100% of the snaps was intentional. The coach believed that this approach would be beneficial for Hardman, who was eager to contribute. While there was a predetermined rotation, Hardman’s enthusiasm led him to push for consecutive plays, aiming to establish a rhythm and flow in the game.