Aug 23, 2014; Kansas City, MO; Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith (11) hands off to running back De’Anthony Thomas (1) at Arrowhead Stadium. Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Chiefs dealt with two injuries late in Wednesday’s practice, coach Andy Reid announced Thursday morning.
And the players involved are counted on as main contributors.
“(Running back) De’Anthony (Thomas) has a slight hamstring,” Reid said. “We really don’t know how bad it is or how long it will be. And then (cornerback Marcus) Coop(er) had an ankle.”
Reid said the team didn’t find out about the injuries until after Wednesday’s practice and explained both mishaps occurred within moments of each other.
“I want to think it happened either first,” Reid said, “you know, one play right after another. I mean, it was crazy. We took care of them this morning.”
The injuries come as the Chiefs prepare for Sunday’s regular-season opener against the Tennessee Titans at Arrowhead Stadium.
But Reid didn’t sound too alarmed as to the severity of each injury.
“We think they’re going to be OK here,” he said. “There was limited, very little swelling in the ankle (Cooper). I think we’re going to be OK.”
The Chiefs list Thomas as the fifth running back and third at the X, or split wide receiver. The rookie is also the team’s punt returner.
The Chiefs have enough depth at running back, but may have to lean on wide receiver Frankie Hammond Jr. to field punts if necessary.
Cornerback Ron Parker would likely draw the start at left cornerback if Cooper can’t play Sunday.
Thomas and Cooper were not observed on the field during the Thursday afternoon portion of practice open to the media.
The Chiefs’ official injury report will be released late Thursday afternoon.
