KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The “next man up” cliché is alive and well with the Chiefs’ offensive line.
Starting left tackle Branden Albert is battling a hyperextended knee, starting right guard Jon Asamoah is dealing with a shoulder injury and starting rookie right tackle Eric Fisher is returning from a shoulder injury.
Sep 19, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Donald Stephenson (79) during the second quarter against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Thankfully, the team has depth to combat the injuries.
Coach Andy Reid said during Wednesday’s media session that second-year pro Donald Stephenson will start at left tackle as long as Albert is out, while Fisher will start at his usual spot on the right side.
“Both of them have practiced at those spots,” Reid said when explaining the rotation. “Stephenson has more work at the left side; Fisher had all his work at the right side.”
Meanwhile, Reid said veteran offensive lineman Geoff Schwarz will continue to start at right guard over Jon Asamoah, who is recovering from a shoulder injury.
“Schwartz right now will be starting,” Reid said. “He’s jumped in and actually has done very well.”
Reid said Asamoah’s shoulder is “still a bit tender.”
Notes: Reid said Albert will not practice Wednesday, but “is making progress” … Tight end Anthony Fasano (concussion) hasn’t been cleared and will not practice, Reid said … Reid said outside linebacker Justin Houston (elbow) will not practice.
