The Kansas Chiefs offense kicks off against the Carolina Panthers with quarterback Alex Smith and running back Spencer Ware back starting in the backfield, but missing starting wide receiver Jeremy Maclin.
Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith hands off to running back Spencer Ware during the opening drive of the team’s preseason game against Seattle on Saturday, Aug. 13 in Kansas City, Mo. (Emily DeShazer/The Topeka Capital-Journal)
Linebacker Derrick Johnson, the only real question mark heading in the starting lineup heading into Sunday, is active and plans to start against the Panthers.
The team ruled out Maclin on Friday along with defensive lineman Jaye Howard and linebacker Justin Houston. Other inactives include quarterback Tyler Bray, cornerback D.J. White, running back Bishop Sankey and offensive lineman Mike Person.
The Chiefs lineup with four tight ends again the Panthers. Tyreek Hill expects to replace Maclin among the front line wide receivers, joining Chris Conley and Albert Wilson.
The Panthers enter the game dinged up along the offensive line without starting left tackle Michael Oher and center Ryan Kalil. Backup center Gino Gradkowski, battling a knee injury, plans to start in his place.
Chiefs inactive list: WR Jeremy Maclin, DL Jaye Howard, LB Justin Houston, QB Tyler Bray, CB D.J. White RB Bishop Sankey and OL Mike Person
Panthers inactive list: T Michael Oher, S Colin Jones, RB Cameron Artis-Payne, LB Shaq Thompson, C Ryan Kalil, DL Kyle Love and TE Chris Manhertz
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Matt Derrick is the lead beat writer for ChiefsDigest.com and the Topeka Capital-Journal. Use the contact page to reach him or find him on Twitter: @MattDerrick.
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