The Kansas City Chiefs are hitting their Week 1 “Monday Night Football” opener against the Denver Broncos with some major question marks already. Starting left tackle Josh Simmons and safety Chamarri Conner both sat out Thursday’s practice, a real gut punch for the reigning champs, especially since they’ve reportedly missed nearly a month of practice leading up to this. Seriously, a month out for starters before the season even kicks off? That’s not ideal for any team, let alone one with big expectations.
The Early Season Injury Bug Hits Hard
Losing a starting left tackle like Simmons (who’s battling a back issue) this close to Week 1 is a brutal blow for any offense, particularly when you’re protecting a franchise QB. That’s the guy shielding your signal-caller’s blind side! Then you’ve got Conner, a safety sidelined with a knee injury, also missing significant time. These aren’t just backups; these are key pieces for both sides of the ball. You gotta wonder how long it’ll take them to get back up to game speed once they return, assuming it’s soon. It’s a huge test for the Chiefs’ depth right out of the gate when they welcome the Broncos to Arrowhead Stadium.
But Don’t Count Out Mahomes Just Yet
Now for some good news, because it’s not all doom and gloom. Defensive end Ashton Gillotte, who’s been out for weeks with a ruptured plantar fascia in his foot, was a full participant in practice! And rookie edge rusher R Mason Thomas, who had a hamstring issue pop up last week, also got in a full session. Getting those guys back on the defensive line is a massive boost, bringing some much-needed pressure. And the biggest relief for Chiefs fans? Quarterback Patrick Mahomes is cleared to start Week 1. Head coach Andy Reid said Mahomes “sounds ready to roll,” and honestly, what else do you need to hear? When Mahomes is ready, anything’s possible.
This Monday Night Football showdown is going to be intense, with Denver surely looking to capitalize on any weakness. But for us in the Emerald City, the Seahawks just snagged a gritty 13-10 victory over the New England Patriots. What a way to start the season, huh? Bring on Week 2, 12s, let’s keep that momentum rolling!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Arrowhead Pride.
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