It's still being determined whether another Kansas City Chiefs player will suit up for Thursday night's season-opening game against the Detroit Lions.
According to head coach Andy Reid, Travis Kelce hyperextended his knee during practice on Tuesday. Kelce is thought to have escaped a long-term knee injury, according to NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, but his availability for Thursday is uncertain. Rapoport and Pelissero said, "Kelece's status for Week 1 should become obvious after swelling in his knee reduces."
In Tuesday's practice, Kelce was labeled as a limited participant.
A prolonged absence from Kelce, who hasn't missed a game due to injury since 2013, would be highly detrimental to the Super Bowl champions.
In 2022, the tight end produced 110 catches, which was third-most in the NFL, 1,338 yards, which was eighth, and 12 touchdowns, which was second. Kelce has produced 493 receptions and 6,298 receiving yards since Patrick Mahomes took over at the position of center in 2018, which is more than any other QB-pass receiver combination during that time. Kelce has been selected to eight consecutive Pro Bowls and has led the Chiefs in catches in six of the last seven seasons.
If Kelce is out, the tight ends in line would be Noah Gray and Blake Bell.
The Chiefs' receiver situation was uncertain heading into the offseason, with young players like Kadarius Toney and Skyy Moore anticipated to play larger roles. The supposition that Kelce would continue to serve as Mahomes' safety net and go-to target for big plays provided a safety net for all the WR debate.
Two days out from the 2023 season opener, that presumption is being questioned.
On Thursday, K.C. may be without two of its top talents if the Chris Jones situation is still unresolved.
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