The Kansas City Chiefs could be missing a key player when they take the field in the divisional round.
The Chiefs locked up the No. 1 seed in the AFC after a 15-2 season, earning a chance to rest during the wild-card round and get healthier for this weekend’s game against the Houston Texans.
While the Chiefs have been largely healthy this week, with everyone on their 53-man roster able to practice in full, one player returning from injured reserve could still be at risk of missing the game. The team announced on Wednesday that wide receiver and return specialist Mecole Hardman was limited at practice, making it unclear whether he would be ready in time for this weekend’s game.
The Chiefs placed Hardman on injured reserve in December after suffering a knee injury. He has been a versatile weapon for quarterback Patrick Mahomes, catching 12 passes for 90 yards and rushing for 64 yards with a touchdown. He is also the team’s primary punt returner, averaging 10.2 yards on 20 returns this season.
Hardman has been able to return to practice since early January, but not yet rejoined the roster. The Chiefs would still need to activate Hardman to the 53-man roster if he is to play in Saturday’s game against the Houston Texans.
A welcome sign for the #Chiefs:
Jaylen Watson & Mecole Hardman back in practice#ChiefsKingdom pic.twitter.com/5uW8IzN67r
— Matt Foster (@MattFosterTV) January 3, 2025
While no other players had limitations in practice, the Chiefs noted injuries for several players including a nagging ankle injury for Mahomes and rib injury for running back Isiah Pacheco.
