The Kansas City Chiefs are facing significant challenges with their wide receivers, exacerbating the struggles of their offense this season. The team has lost two key playmakers from an already-thin receiver group.
Mecole Hardman has been placed on injured reserve due to a thumb sprain, while Kadarius Toney has been ruled out for the upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders, despite participating fully in practice throughout the week.
Toney’s unexpected status change is particularly surprising, as he was initially listed with an ankle issue on the injury report, but a hip problem was added on Saturday without clarification on its origin.
The decision to move Hardman to injured reserve comes as a surprise, especially since he returned to the game after leaving against the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football.
However, he did not resume punt return duties after the injury, with that responsibility falling to the now-unavailable Toney.
Head coach Andy Reid acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the duration of Hardman’s absence, stating that there’s a possibility it could extend beyond one week. As a result, Hardman will be sidelined for a minimum of four games.
Although wide receiver Richie James was activated off injured reserve last week, he was a healthy scratch on game day. It’s likely that he will be back on the field in Las Vegas.
Additionally, the Chiefs made two practice squad elevations on Saturday, bringing up running back La’Mical Perine and wide receiver Montrell Washington.
These moves were prompted by the loss of running back Jerick McKinnon and the injuries to both Toney and Hardman. Washington, who previously showcased reliable punt return skills during his time on the active roster, is expected to contribute in this aspect once again.
Meanwhile, Perine previously saw action in place of running back Clyde-Edwards Helaire in the Chiefs’ game against the Miami Dolphins in Germany, where he recorded one carry for one yard.
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