KANSAS CITY, Mo. – It’s been four weeks since Chiefs tight end Anthony Fasano suffering an ankle injury in Week Two’s 17-16 win against the Dallas Cowboys.
The Chiefs have won three straight games during that span, including a physical 26-17 victory against the Tennessee Titans last week.
And following that game, Fasano took to Twitter to express joy and a little frustration.
So happy, yet so frustrated. #5-0 http://t.co/b69CnyDDvG
— Anthony Fasano (@Anthony_Fasano) October 6, 2013
Nevertheless, Chiefs coach Andy Reid expressed his understanding of Fasano’s disappointment over the missed time.
“I think his frustration is over just not being healthy,” Reid said during Monday’s media session. “If he’s tweeting that, it’s just not about having the opportunity to play. He loves to play the game.”
Still, while Fasano may be absent on the field, his presence is clearly felt between his replacements, Sean McGrath and Kevin Brock.
McGrath said Fasano’s support behind the scenes has been “incredible,” adding having Fasano is comparable to having an additional position coach.
“(Tight ends) coach (Tom) Melvin is in the box, so during the game when I come off the sidelines, he’s the first person I talk to,” McGrath said of Fasano. “Not being active from a physical standpoint isn’t hindering his ability to bring his veteran edge or leadership to the team.”
Brock agreed.
“On game day, it’s having an extra set of eyes,” he said. “I’m watching, Sean is watching and having him watch as well. We all get on the same page that way.”
McGrath has emerged to become a cult hero of sorts among Chiefs fans, catching 13 passes for 149 yards and a touchdown on 19 targets since Week Three. Brock has two catches for 27 yards on the season.
Brock said he enjoys being with a veteran tight end who is willing to share experiences and doesn’t hesitate to pick his Fasano’s brain.
“He’s played a lot of football, played a number of games in this league,” Brock said. “He’s very knowledgeable. If I can take a little bit from him, I jump at the chance.”
Meanwhile, McGrath said he especially appreciates being around Fasano during the week as the team prepares for upcoming opponents, pointing out Fasano’s ability to mentor the team’s young tight end corps.
Fasano hasn’t played since Week Two, but he’s doing his part to ensure his replacements are ready for whatever comes their way.
“From the meeting room down to the field, it’s constant communication,” McGrath said. “He’s done a great job of embracing that role. He hasn’t been on the field, but he’s going to do everything in his power to help us succeed.”
