We've worried all week that the Chiefs would be without several key contributors against the Bills this week
Unfortunately, our worst fears were confirmed today as four vital players have officially been ruled out of this Week 14 contest.
Get the latest information below.
Chiefs Injury News: Four Key Players Ruled Out
The #Chiefs are ruling out RB Isiah Pacheco, LB Drue Tranquill, DB Bryan Cook, and OT Donovan Smith for their game against the #Bills.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 8, 2023
Isiah Pacheco, Drue Tranquill, Bryan Cook and Donovan Smith will all miss the pivotal showdown.
Cook's absence was expected, but there was optimism the other three would be able to play. Pacheco's shoulder contusion popped up seemingly out of nowhere, Tranquill suffered a concussion, while Smith had a neck injury.
That means Clyde Edwards-Helaire will start at running back. Young players like Chamarri Conner and Jack Cochrane need to step up on defense.
#Chiefs HC Andy Reid said Clyde Edwards-Helaire would be the "No. 1 guy" with Isiah Pacheco ruled out this week. As I've been saying. Big opportunity for CEH to showcase ahead of free agency.
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) December 8, 2023
Promising rookie Wanya Morris will replace Smith on the offensive line and fared well. Overall, this is disappointing news but an excellent opportunity for several young contributors to earn experience and prove they can make a difference in the playoffs.
It's a fitting touch that the much-maligned Edwards-Helaire now can potentially salvage value, both in the NFL's eyes and in the fan base.
This is close to a must-win for Kansas City. Today's report is bad news, but the Chiefs can make a massive statement with a big performance.
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