The Kansas City Chiefs are gearing up for their title defense, but the start of training camp brought some unfortunate news from head coach Andy Reid. As the first wave of players returned to the team’s facilities, it was revealed that several key players would begin camp on the injured lists.
According to Chiefs reporter Matt McMullen, Reid announced that BJ Thompson will be starting training camp on the NFI (non-football injury) list. While Thompson is reportedly doing well, he is still undergoing procedures. In addition, Jaylen Watson, Charles Omenihu, Derrick Nnadi, and Joe Thuney are expected to begin camp on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list.
Thompson, a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, will have to overcome this setback as he looks to make an impact on the field. Watson, a seventh-round pick from 2022, is facing the challenge of competing for a starting spot following the departure of L’Jarius Sneed in free agency. With Sneed now with the Tennessee Titans, Watson will need to step up and prove himself opposite Trent McDuffie.
Omenihu, who missed the first six weeks of the 2023 season due to a suspension, will also be starting camp on the injured list. Despite his absence, he managed to record 7.0 sacks in his 11 games with the Chiefs last season.
As the rest of the team prepares to join the rookies and quarterbacks in camp, the Chiefs will have to navigate these early obstacles to maintain their championship aspirations. With the start of the season just around the corner, Reid and his coaching staff will need to get creative in managing the roster and finding ways to overcome the loss of key players at this crucial time.
