Chiefs See Unlikely Hero Step Up After Key Injury in Preseason Week 2

The Chiefs saw an unlikely hero step up in a major way in Saturday's Preseason Week 2 loss to the Detroit Lions.

When veteran long snapper James Winchester went down with an injury, backup tight end Noah Gray was suddenly thrust into a role he'd never had. Gray received some quality coaching and delivered, keeping Kansas City's special teams unit afloat.

Winchester's injury likely indicates the Chiefs need to prepare another long snapper if he goes down in the regular season, though Gray's heroics showcased his importance and versatility on this team.

Chiefs TE Noah Gray Serves as Long Snapper in Surprise Preseason Week 2 Replacement

Winchester is entering his 10th year in the NFL, every one of which has been spent with the Chiefs. He's a three-time Super Bowl champion and a future Ring of Honor member, though he's never truly dealt with an injury.

After he went down, the Chiefs' coaching staff suddenly had to scramble. Gray rose to the occasion and proved his versatility, giving Kansas City quality snaps at a new position in a surprising storyline.

Going into a contract year, Gray is doing everything he can to earn an extension even after the Chiefs drafted promising rookie Jared Wiley in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Gray might be auditioning for his next team, though it's harder to argue he shouldn't be signed if he can display this kind of versatility.

Winchester's health remains a question, yet no reports indicate he's in line to miss time. The Chiefs should be ready to go on September 5 against the Ravens but now the organization at least knows Gray can serve multiple roles if necessary.

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