KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Chiefs list linebacker Justin Houston (concussion) as probable for Sunday’s game against the Oakland Raiders.
Houston, who ranks second in the league with 8 ½ sacks, put in a full practice Friday after being limited Thursday and sitting out Wednesday’s session.
Dec 2, 2012; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates a tackle against the Carolina Panthers in the second half at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Rieger-USA TODAY Sports
But considering Houston is going through concussion protocols, Chiefs coach Andy Reid said Houston’s availability won’t occur until game day.
“You don’t do that until Sunday, but he’s been cleared to practice” Reid said.
Houston’s listing as probable after putting in a full practice is a good sign he could be on the field. However, in the event he’s not available, veteran linebacker Frank Zombo would fill Houston’s spot.
Chiefs defensive coordinator Bob Sutton expressed his confidence in Zombo during Thursday’s media session.
“We’re very comfortable with him, he has a good knowledge of the defense, he’s a sharp guy, he plays with a high level of intensity,” Sutton said. “We feel like he can go in there and play, and we are going to be OK in that regard.”
Flowers tweaks knee
Chiefs starting cornerback Brandon Flowers, who had battled a knee injury in recent weeks, is a new addition to Friday’s injury report.
“Brandon Flowers tweaked his other knee just a little bit,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid announced during Friday’s media session.
The Chiefs list Flowers as questionable and limited in Friday’s practice.
If Flowers can’t go, the Chiefs have options among Marcus Cooper, who has emerged the past two games, veteran Dunta Robinson and Ron Parker.
Robinson started in Week Four in place of Flowers before the Chiefs rotated in Cooper.
Notes: Tight end Anthony Fasano (ankle, knee) is doubtful … Starting safety Kendrick Lewis (ankle, questionable) was a limited participant in Friday’s practice after missing the previous two days … Along with linebacker Justin Houston, the Chiefs list running back Jamaal Charles (toes), wide receiver Donnie Avery (shoulder), punter Dustin Colquitt (knee), guard Jeff Allen (groin), right tackle Eric Fisher (concussion), tight end Sean McGrath (knee), offensive lineman Geoff Schwartz (tricep), fullback Anthony Sherman (knee) and linebacker Dezman Moses (toe) as probable … All players listed as probable put in a full practice on Friday.
