After an 0-3 start, Kansas City has begun to show promise of moving in the right direction. The team suffered a couple of key losses to solid players to start the season. Since then, they have had relatively few injuries, with most starters and other key players remaining healthy and available. However there are still some injuries of note that can have an impact on the sale of Chiefs tickets for its next game.
Jon Baldwin – Thumb
The highly touted rookie wide receiver from Pittsburgh still has been unable to make his NFL debut. Baldwin is still questionable to make his rookie debut against Oakland after the bye in week 6. Baldwin has been able to use his downtime studying the Kansas City playbook and has the skills to make an impact once he returns to play. We’ll soon see just how ready Baldwin is for the real season.
Jackie Battle – Head
Also listed as questionable for week 7 versus Oakland, running back Jackie Battle suffered a head injury that was being cautiously evaluated, leaving him to miss practice after week 5. However coach Todd Haley was optimistic that Battle could return after being out for only a short period of time. Haley had a productive week 5 during the 28-24 victory against the home team Indianapolis, where he carried the ball 19 times ahead of starter Thomas Jones for 119 yards. This breakout game means that Battle, a 4 year veteran from Houston, could earn more playing time upon his return and make a significant contribution to the Chief’s season.
Le’Ron McClain – Neck
McClain a 5 year pro from the Crimson Tide of Alabama, suffered a neck injury. The fullback McClain is low on the depth charts behind Thomas Jones, Jackie Battle and Dexter McCluster and is not expected to get a lot of playing time except on special teams. He has a low 2.1 yards per carry average. However McClain is expected to be able to contribute again soon as he is listed as questionable for week seven against the Oakland Raiders.
Other key players had their seasons end early and will not be able to contribute to the team this year. Players of note include: Jamaal Charles, a 4th year running back from Texas with expectations of a breakout season who suffered a torn ACL during week 1. The Chiefs also suffered a big loss when reliable tight end Tony Moeaki tore the ACL in his knee. Moeaki had 47 receptions and over 550 yards receiving during the 2010 season and was considered a reliable target for Quarterback Matt Cassell. His season ended before it started in the last preseason game against the Green Bay packers after an awkward fall.
With the possible returns of rookie John Baldwin and veteran Jackie Battle during week 7, Kansas City will add needed depth to their wide receiver and running back positions. With five games remaining with division foes and 2 against the division leading Raiders, the season is still far from over for the Kansas City Chiefs. Make sure to go out and support the team by buying your Chief tickets today!
