Chiefs defensive lineman returned to training camp practice on Monday
The Kansas City Chiefs had another defensive lineman return to practice on Monday, but it isn't the one that everyone is clamoring for. Chris Jones remains absent from training camp practice as his contract-related holdout persists. Speaking to media members following Monday's practice session, Chiefs HC Andy Reid confirmed that only three players were absent from practice […]
The Kansas City Chiefs had another defensive lineman return to practice on Monday, but it isn't the one that everyone is clamoring for.
Chris Jones remains absent from training camp practice as his contract-related holdout persists. Speaking to media members following Monday's practice session, Chiefs HC Andy Reid confirmed that only three players were absent from practice with injuries.
This is significant because it means that Mike Danna, who had missed several practice sessions with a calf injury, is now back in the fold at a time when defensive line depth has been tested.
"Alright, as far as the injuries go, Jody Fortson, L'Jarius Sneed – and his is better," Reid said. "It's getting there. The inflammation, we're working with. And then (Kadarius Toney) didn't practice. Everyone else practiced. It was good to get some of the guys that were banged up a little bit out there. (Tershawn Wharton) continues to progress with reps. He did a little 9-on-7 and team. So it's good to get him in there."
Danna's return to action is significant because he boasts similar positional versatility to recently suspended DL Charles Omenihu. While Omenihu can still practice with the team and play during the preseason, Danna is a player who will likely help fill that inside/outside role in his absence when the regular season arrives.
On that same note, seeing Tershawn Wharton progress in his return from the PUP list will only strengthen the team's depth along the defensive line.
As Reid stated, TE Jody Fortson remains absent from practice with a shoulder injury. CB L'Jarius Sneed is nursing a knee injury, which Reid also elaborated on during his presser.
"It just — it swells," Reid said of Sneed's knee. "We're trying to keep it down. The better we do that, the better off he's going to be for the season."
With just three players absent from practice for injury reasons, it's clear that the Chiefs are in a good spot with preseason Week 1 fast approaching. The key will be keeping players from injury as the practice week progresses with three more practices to go before they travel to New Orleans to face the Saints.
Young Chiefs defensive linemen stand to benefit from Charles Omenihu’s suspension
The Kansas City Chiefs have options.
Featured image via Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
