The Kansas City Chiefs are heading into their crucial Thanksgiving Day game against the Dallas Cowboys missing three key players have been officially ruled out due to injury. The team will have to navigate a tough road matchup without starting guard Trey Smith, tight end Noah Gray and cornerback Christian Roland-Wallace.
The loss of these players deals a significant blow to a team trying to build momentum after a much needed overtime victory against the Indianapolis Colts. The feeling of relief from that win is now tempered by the reality of facing a formidable Cowboys team without a full squad.
Who’s Out for the Chiefs?
The final injury report released Wednesday confirmed the fears that had been circulating throughout the week.
- G Trey Smith (Ankle): Smith, a vital component of the Chiefs’ offensive line, was forced to exit last Sunday’s game against the Colts with an ankle injury and did not return. His absence is a major concern for protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes and establishing the run game against a tenacious Dallas defense. He did not participate in practice all week.
- TE Noah Gray (Concussion): Gray entered the concussion protocol and was unable to practice this week. His absence removes a reliable pass catching option for Mahomes and a key contributor to the Chiefs’ offensive schemes.
- CB Christian Roland-Wallace (Back): After being a full participant in practice on Monday, Roland-Wallace was limited on Tuesday and did not practice at all on Wednesday due to a back injury, leading to him being ruled out. His absence thins the depth in the secondary, which will be tested by the Cowboys’ high powered passing attack.
Who Is Playing for Kansas City?
While the losses are significant, the Chiefs did receive some positive news. Several players who were on the injury report earlier in the week are expected to play.
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes (groin) was a full participant in practice all week and carries no injury designation into the game. Running back Isiah Pacheco (knee), who has been out for over a month, is also set to make his long awaited return, providing a major boost to the ground game.
Additionally, wide receivers Rashee Rice (hamstring) and Xavier Worthy (ankle), along with linebacker Leo Chenal (knee), were all upgraded to full participants in practice by Wednesday and are cleared to play. Their availability is critical for the Chiefs’ offense to keep pace with the Cowboys. Defensive end George Karlaftis (thumb) and tackle Jawaan Taylor (knee) were also full participants and will be ready for Thursday’s game.
For the Chiefs, the elation of their recent win is quickly followed by the harsh reality of the NFL’s physical toll. Heading into Dallas shorthanded, the team’s depth and resilience will be put to the ultimate test in a game that could define the direction of the rest of their season.
