Chiefs Struggle with Injuries Ahead of Season Opener Against Chargers
As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to kick off their season against the Los Angeles Chargers on Friday night, both teams have released their final injury reports, revealing a mix of good and bad news.
Chargers’ Clean Bill of Health
For the Chargers, the outlook is promising as they head into the matchup. Following a week filled with uncertainty, the team’s injury report is entirely clear. Notably, running back Najee Harris and safety Elijah Molden, both of whom were initially listed, have been removed from the report after participating fully in practice on Thursday.
Harris, who faced a challenging offseason after suffering an eye injury from a fireworks accident on July 4, has shown significant progress. After missing all of training camp and the preseason, he is expected to take the field as the starter. Head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed confidence in Harris’s readiness, stating, “He says he’s ready, and he looks ready to go.” Harbaugh acknowledged the unpredictability of play counts but emphasized Harris’s eagerness to compete, adding, “He’s going to play football and have at it. That’s the mindset.”
Chiefs Face Key Absences
In contrast, the Chiefs are grappling with injury setbacks as they gear up for the opener. Rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals has been ruled out due to a knee injury, denying him the chance for a debut on the NFL stage. The Chiefs also have defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott listed as questionable after being limited in practice all week with an ankle issue.
In a slight silver lining for Kansas City, wide receiver Marquise Brown, who had previously been dealing with an ankle issue, has bounced back and participated fully in practices, allowing him to be removed from the injury report. This development is particularly important given Royals’s absence and the suspension of fellow wideout Rashee Rice.
Injury Designations Summary
A look at the injury designations for both teams highlights the contrasting situations:
Chiefs injury designations
WR Jalen Royals (knee) – Out
DL Omarr Norman-Lott (ankle) – Questionable
Chargers injury report
N/A
As both teams finalize their preparations for the highly anticipated season opener, the Chiefs will need to cope with their injury challenges, while the Chargers look to capitalize on their clean slate as they aim for a strong start to the season.
