Kansas City Chiefs HC Andy Reid gives latest update on Mansoor Delane after Kristian Fulton draws start in Week 2 vs. Colts
The No. 6 overall pick didn’t play in Week 2 vs. the Indianapolis Colts. Kansas City Chiefs HC Andy Reid spoke about the decision after the game.
Kansas City Chiefs fans thought that Week 2 vs. the Indianapolis Colts would bring another look at the No. 6 overall pick, Mansoor Delane.
Delane, of course, hurt his shoulder three plays into Week 1’s game against the Denver Broncos. The rookie intercepted a Bo Nix pass, but landed on his shoulder. He didn’t return to the game and had shoulder testing heading into the practice week. On Wednesday, he practiced in full. Then on Thursday, he practiced in full. Come Friday, he was downgraded to limited in practice.
Delane carried a questionable game status designation heading into Week 2 against the Colts. However, he was deemed active for the game. He’d go on to play no snaps on Sunday night. So what gives? If he was healthy, why didn’t he play?
Chiefs HC Andy Reid says CB Mansoor Delane was “an extra guy” vs. the Colts
Delane didn’t play any snaps on defense during Sunday night’s game against the Colts, but he was available to play. Kristian Fulton started opposite Nohl Williams at outside cornerback, with L’Jarius Sneed in the slot on nickel defense.
“Yeah, as an extra– as an extra guy,” Reid told reporters of Delane’s availability. “Now, I won’t take anything away from Fulton either. I mean, he stepped in and did a heck of a job. A couple of those calls could go either way, too, I think. Yeah, it was good to have him. I’m glad he came out and was there in case we needed him.”
It’s always a bit strange when players are available to play off the bench, but not start, due to injury. I think the Chiefs are wise to take the cautious approach here. It didn’t seem to cost them on Sunday, with Fulton putting up a fine performance in Delane’s absence. That included an impressive interception that wasn’t too dissimilar from Delane’s in Week 1.
The good news coming out of the game is that Kansas City had no new injuries to report. The Colts couldn’t say the same thing with guys like Alec Pierce and Charvarius Ward leaving the game early. We’ll continue to monitor Delane’s status ahead of Week 3 against the Miami Dolphins. I’d wager they’ll stay cautious with his shoulder if it keeps bothering him.
