Chiefs, Ravens kickers could be X-factors in AFC Championship
25 January 2024
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs are slowly getting players back before the AFC Championship.
Left guard Joe Thuney (pec), defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi (tricep), running back Isiah Pacheco (toe) and wide receiver Skyy Moore will not practice on Thursday, according to head coach Andy Reid.
All four missed Wednesday’s practice as well.
Thuney left the Divisional Round game against the Buffalo Bills early with a pec strain, and ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that he is unlikely to play Sunday.
Linebacker Willie Gay (neck) was limited in Wednesday’s and Thursday’s practices after leaving the Bills game early. Reid said Gay’s neck is stiff, but he’s getting better.
Reid also said Pacheco participated in Thursday’s walkthrough but did not practice.
Safety Mike Edwards missed Wednesday’s practice since he also left the Bills game with a concussion but will practice on Thursday.
Right guard Trey Smith also missed Wednesday with an illness but was back on Thursday. Veteran backup Nick Allegretti will be up in his place if he does not play Sunday.
Nnadi missed the Buffalo game with the same injury and was seen in the locker room with an arm brace.
Moore is still on injured reserve with a knee injury and would need to be put on the active roster to be eligible to play. His 21-day window to return to play opened last week, and he did not play against Buffalo.
Pacheco is a crucial piece of the running game with 97 yards and a TD against Buffalo but said on Wednesday that he expects to play this weekend.