KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston did not practice Thursday, but how concerned Chiefs fans should be about his availability for Sunday’s game remains unclear.
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Justin Houston answers questions from reporters at the team’s training complex after the team added him to the active roster this week. (Photo by Matt Derrick, ChiefsDigest.com)
Houston sustained a shoulder injury during Sunday’s win at Denver. The veteran linebacker participated in practice fully on Wednesday. On Thursday, just appeared on the field without his helmet, suggesting an observation role only for him.
Defensive lineman Dontari Poe and Kendall Reyes also did not practice Thursday. The Chiefs face an increasing lack of depth along the defensive line after the team also placed defensive lineman Jaye Howard on injured reserve.
Linebacker Dee Ford and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin remained limited in practice Thursday as they continue their rehabilitation from injuries.
New additions to the injury report include tackle Mitchell Schwartz (ankle) and wide receiver Chris Conley (Achilles). Both players appear limited on the participation report. No word from the team yet if injuries to either player jeopardizes their likelihood to play at Atlanta Sunday.
Three players listed on Wednesday’s participation report did not appear on Thursday’s injury roundup. That group includes quarterback Alex Smith (chest), tight end Travis Kelce (shoulder) and linebacker Derrick Johnson (Achilles).
ATLANTA FALCONS
Practice report
Did not participate in practice: DE Adrian Clayborn (knee)
Limited participation: P Matt Bosher (right hamstring)
Full participation: DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related)
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Practice report
Did not participate in practice: DT Dontari Poe (knee) and DL Kendall Reyes (knee)
Limited participation: LB Dee Ford (hamstring), WR Jeremy Maclin (groin), LB Tamba Hali (knee), T Mitchell Schwartz (ankle) and WR Chris Conley (Achilles)
Full participation: Steven Nelson (neck)
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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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