It's already Week 10 of the NFL season, and teams from every corner of the league are beginning to face the repercussions of how brutal this league can be. Injuries are a part of the game and something that you've to expect to overcome. It's no different for the Kansas City Chiefs this week.
The Chiefs have already ruled out defensive tackle Peter Woods and right tackle Jaylon Moore for the second consecutive week. This means that KC will have to put a heavy load on Chris Jones and Khyiris Tonga, as well as increased snap usage for Marcus Harris.
Preseason trade acquisition Josh Ezeudu will get his second start as a Chief, opposite left tackle Kahlil Benson. This is yet another game this season where the Chiefs are severely handicapped at offensive tackle.
Chiefs are dealing with multiple questions marks entering Week 10
Rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane is listed as questionable to play due to a lingering shoulder injury, but three straight days listed as a full participant in practice ought to lead him in the right direction. As for Patrick Mahomes, who suffered what looked to be another season-ending elbow injury last week, was a full go all week and should be for the game as well.
What's more concerning, however, is the fact that Kenneth Walker III is out for Sunday's game, missing his first action this year. On the back of a three-touchdown performance, the reigning Super Bowl MVP did not practice on Friday due to a groin injury, and it seems the team remains cautious with him.
Andy Reid said in a press conference this week that the team will feel out the situation as they go, but the decision has already been made. It's a massive blow to the Chiefs' offense, as he is tied for the league lead in TDs (11) and has already accounted for over 1,000 scrimmage yards.
Last year, this would have been a catastrophic issue, as the Chiefs' running back room lacked top-tier talent as well as depth. This year, however, Kansas City has a not-so-secret weapon in fifth-round rookie Emmett Johnson at its disposal.
The former Nebraska Cornhusker has scored a touchdown in two straight weeks and should be ready to roll for 20-plus opportunities for the first time in his career. Johnson is no stranger to handling a large workload. His senior season amassed nearly 300 touches in 12 games.
Johnson is one of the many Chiefs players who will have to step up this week in place of injured starters and find a way to beat the Falcons in a must-win scenario.
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