Scott Winters/Getty Images
Kansas City Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce suffered a hyperextended knee during practice on Tuesday.
The news were confirmed by head coach Andy Reid, who expressed uncertainty about Kelce’s availability for the highly anticipated 2023 season opener against the Detroit Lions, scheduled for Thursday night.
“(Travis) Kelce hyperextended his knee today, so we’ll see how it goes for Thursday night,” said Reid, addressing reporters after the practice session.
If Kelce is unable to take the field on Thursday, the Chiefs’ passing game will face a significant challenge, as he is a key target for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
In his absence, the top pass catchers are expected to include wide receivers Kadarius Toney, Skyy Moore, Marquez Valdez-Scantling, tight end Noah Gray, and running back Jerick McKinnon.
In an unrelated but noteworthy development, the Chiefs are also grappling with the absence of star defensive tackle Chris Jones, who is currently holding out.
Jones’s absence on the defensive line adds to the challenges facing the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.