KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The worst fears for Chiefs wide receiver Marcus Kemp are confirmed, with the third-year player suffering a torn ACL and MCL in his left knee in Saturday's 17-7 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Kemp underwent an MRI Sunday that confirmed the initial diagnosis, a source told Chiefs Digest. The injury ends Kemp's season, a campaign that started with promise following a strong training camp performance.
Kemp appeared to have locked down a roster spot with an improved showing at receiver. Last season he emerged as one of the team's top special teams performers. He joined the team in 2017 as an undrafted free agent from Hawaii.
Kemp likely heading to injured reserve could open up a roster spot for the return of veteran offensive lineman Jeff Allen to the club. Former Chiefs offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz first tweeted that a reunion was in the works, with NFL reporter Adam Caplan first reporting a one-year deal was completed.
The 29-year-old Allen started his career as a second-round draft pick with the Chiefs in 2012, spending four seasons with the club. After two seasons with the Houston Texans, Allen rejoined the Chiefs last October as a free agent. He played 10 games with four starts during the regular season.
Allen returning to the Chiefs adds an experienced interior lineman to the club. Cam Erving projects as the team's swing tackle. Sixth-round pick Nick Allegretti along with last year's sixth-round choice Kahlil McKenzie and 2018 undrafted rookie free agents Ryan Hunter and Jimmy Murray have competed for an interior backup role during the preseason.
