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Trey Smith’s Availability Hangs in the Balance The most significant concern for Kansas City is the health of starting right guard Trey Smith, who missed both Thursday and Friday practices due to back spasms. Smith’s absence would be a notable blow to an offensive line that has been instrumental in the Chiefs’ undefeated start to the season. If Smith cannot go on Monday night, backup Mike Caliendo is expected to step into the starting role. The Chiefs will likely wait until Saturday’s final practice to make a determination on Smith’s availability. Head coach Andy Reid has indicated that if Smith can practice in any capacity on Saturday, he will have a realistic shot at suiting up against Washington. Kareem Hunt Trends Toward Playing Running back Kareem Hunt appears to be on track for Monday night after sustaining a bone bruise in his knee during last week’s game against the Raiders. Hunt, who finished that contest with four carries for 18 yards before exiting, was held out of Thursday’s practice but returned as a limited participant on Friday. The progression from DNP to limited participation is an encouraging sign that Hunt should be available to carry the load in the Chiefs’ backfield. His presence will be crucial against a Commanders defense that has shown vulnerability against the run. Josh Simmons Continues to Miss Time Left tackle Josh Simmons missed both practices for non-injury related personal reasons. Reid described the situation as a family matter, and Simmons appears headed toward missing his third consecutive game. According to ESPN’s Nate Taylor, Simmons is expected to rejoin the team in the coming weeks, but his timeline for return remains unclear. The Chiefs have adjusted their offensive line without Simmons in recent weeks, but his eventual return would provide a significant boost to the unit’s depth and talent level. Secondary Gets Healthier The Chiefs received positive news in the defensive backfield. Starting cornerback Jaylen Watson, who was limited with a back injury on Thursday, practiced fully on Friday and should be ready for Monday night barring any setbacks. Watson’s availability is critical as Kansas City prepares to face a Commanders receiving corps that is getting healthier. Cornerback Christian Roland-Wallace also practiced in full both days despite a hand injury and appears to be in good shape for the primetime showdown. Full Participants Signal Green Lights Several Chiefs players practiced without restrictions on both Thursday and Friday, indicating they should be ready for Monday night. Xavier Worthy, who has been dealing with shoulder and ankle issues, was a full participant both days. His speed and playmaking ability have been valuable weapons for Patrick Mahomes this season. Defensive end Charles Omenihu, working his way back from ankle and abdomen injuries, also practiced fully both days. His return to form would bolster a pass rush that will be tested by Washington’s offensive line. Right tackle Jawaan Taylor (knee and shoulder), defensive lineman Jerry Tillery (elbow) and running back Brashard Smith (toe) all practiced without limitations, suggesting they will be available for the Monday night contest. Washington’s Injury Situation The Commanders have already ruled out starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, who did not practice Thursday or Friday due to a hamstring injury. This is a significant development for Kansas City’s defense, which will face Marcus Mariota. However, Washington is getting healthier at the skill positions. Wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel both practiced fully on Thursday and Friday. McLaurin has missed the past four games with a quad injury, while Samuel sat out last week with a heel issue. Their expected returns give Washington’s offense a boost heading into Arrowhead Stadium. Starting guard Sam Cosmi, who missed Thursday’s practice with a back injury, returned to full participation Friday. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Daron Payne did not practice either day due to a toe injury, which would be a significant loss for Washington’s defensive front if he cannot play. The Chiefs’ final injury report will be released Saturday, providing clarity on Smith’s status and setting the stage for Monday night’s AFC-NFC showdown at Arrowhead Stadium.
