The Kansas City Chiefs have excluded two key offensive starters from their upcoming crucial clash with the Cincinnati Bengals.
In the aftermath of the Chiefs’ defeat to the Las Vegas Raiders, offensive coordinator Matt Nagy characterized it as the lowest point in a season marked by challenges.
Throughout the regular season, the Chiefs’ offense has grappled with issues, presenting a pressing need for improvement with only two games remaining before the playoffs. The situation is further complicated by injuries, exacerbating the offensive struggles heading into Week 17.
As reported by Arrowhead Pride’s Pete Sweeney, left tackle Donovan Smith and wide receiver Kadarius Toney have been officially ruled out, while cornerback L’Jarius Sneed is listed as questionable. Uncertainty surrounds the availability of running backs Isiah Pacheco and Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
The #Chiefs say that LT Donovan Smith and WR Kadarius Toney will be listed as OUT against the Bengals.
CB L'Jarius Sneed is still working through his calf injury and is QUESTIONABLE for the game.
RB Isiah Pacheco practiced Friday, and the Chiefs will see how he does following…
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) December 29, 2023
In a potential positive development, there is a chance that wide receiver Mecole Hardman may return for the Bengals matchup. Given the Bengals’ defensive challenges, the Chiefs require capable playmakers to catch passes.
However, the primary concern at present is whether the Chiefs will have a sufficient number of active players on the roster for Week 17. Once again, the onus will fall on quarterback Patrick Mahomes to guide the team in the face of personnel shortages.
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