Chiefs Defender's Injury May Have Cost Him Final Chance To Win Key Position Battle

As the Kansas City Chiefs head into their preseason finale against the Chicago Bears on Thursday, they still have an intriguing position battle playing out on defense.

Throughout training camp, the Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo have been watching to see who will emerge at CB2 between Jaylen Watson, Joshua Williams, and Nazeeh Johnson.

Watson has been a non-factor in the battle as he’s missed the first two preseason games with a shoulder injury. However, Reid told reporters on Monday that Watson will play in the team’s finale against the Bears if he’s available. 

That would be good news for the Chiefs’ defense as Nazeeh Johnson did not practice on Monday due to a hamstring injury.

If things couldn't get worse for the Chiefs, they might not have Williams for Thursday night’s finale, which adds a new wrinkle to this ongoing battle. According to Pete Sweeney of Arrowhead Pride, Williams missed Tuesday’s practice with a hamstring injury. 

With the Chiefs playing on Thursday, it would be shocking to see Williams suit up as hamstring injuries can linger if not properly treated.

The former Fayetteville State star played 21 combined snaps (13 on defense) in last week’s preseason game against the Detroit Lions. He also played 21 defensive snaps in Kansas City's preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Based on his playing experience, Williams seemed like the perfect candidate to start opposite rising star Trent McDuffie on the boundary However, the Chiefs will likely be cautious with his injury, and try to figure out an answer at CB2 before the regular season opener against the Baltimore Ravens.

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