The Detroit Lions have been plagued by several injuries entering Sunday’s matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs but gained some relief after a late injury report update involving a key Chiefs player.
Kansas City added one of its starting offensive linemen to the injury list, creating uncertainty about his availability for the Sunday Night Football showdown. The Lions aim to maintain their NFC North lead against a Chiefs squad looking to rebound after an uneven start to the season.
Chiefs Could Be Without Key Left Tackle
According to Jeff Risdon of USA Today’s Lions Wire, the Chiefs’ injury report featured an important late development.
“The Chiefs have officially listed starting left tackle Josh Simmons as questionable for Week 6 due to personal reasons, which haven’t been specified,” Risdon reported. “Simmons has performed solidly in his rookie campaign, stepping into the starting role. The Ohio State standout was the final selection in April’s first round.”
If Simmons is unavailable, the Chiefs are likely to rely on Wanya Morris, who started 11 games last year. The offense has already shown inconsistency, especially in the run game, where quarterback Patrick Mahomes has often been their most reliable rushing option this season.
Lions Dealing With Injury Woes of Their Own
Detroit continues to manage a long list of injuries, ruling out four players and listing six as questionable for the primetime matchup. Running back Sione Vaki, linebacker Zach Cunningham, cornerback Terrion Arnold, and defensive tackle Alim McNeill—still on the PUP list—will all miss the contest.
The Lions also lost two defensive backs to injured reserve, sidelining D.J. Reed and Khalil Dorsey for the foreseeable future.
Benjamin Raven of MLive.com reported that Detroit’s safety group seems to be improving, with both Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch anticipated to suit up.
Head coach Dan Campbell explained that the team has scaled back its nickel formations amid the defensive injuries.
“You’ll always lean on that a bit more just to calm things down for them,” Campbell said. “Ultimately, the key is making sure everyone’s aligned. Simplifying can ease that stress.
“But the downside is becoming too predictable if you’re not careful. You have to balance those risks depending on your opponent. We’ll be prepared.”
The Lions’ offensive line has also taken a hit, with Taylor Decker ruled out due to a shoulder issue and backup Giovanni Manu placed on injured reserve. Dan Skipper is expected to start at left tackle, while offensive lineman Devin Cochran has been promoted from the practice squad to provide additional flexibility and depth.
