Recent IR Placements
On Wednesday, December 24, the Chiefs added several players to IR, including WR Rashee Rice (concussion), CB Trent McDuffie (knee), WR Tyquan Thornton (concussion), and CB Jaylen Watson (groin). These moves, confirmed in Thursday's update with WR Nikko Remigio (knee) also on IR, strip depth from the receiving corps and secondary.
Earlier in the week, OT Jawaan Taylor (elbow) and LB Leo Chenal (shoulder) were placed on IR on December 20. QB Gardner Minshew (knee) joined the list on December 22, further thinning the quarterback room behind Mahomes.
These IR designations mean these players are out for at least the remainder of the regular season, prompting roster moves to fill gaps. The team promoted practice squad players to maintain competitiveness.
Questionable for Week 17
DE George Karlaftis (illness) and LB Nick Bolton (illness) were limited in Wednesday's practice and listed as questionable for the Broncos game. OT Jaylon Moore (knee) also carries a questionable tag, potentially weakening the offensive line protection.
NT Derrick Nnadi (illness) has been questionable since December 22, adding uncertainty to the defensive front. OT Ethan Driskell (appendix) is on the NFI-R list, limiting his availability.
Practice reports from Arrowhead Pride indicate five players out (Trey Smith - ankle, Esa Pole - knee, Kristian Fulton - knee/wrist, Mike Edwards - shoulder, Jaylon Moore - knee) and one limited, signaling cautious preparation.
Long-Term Absences
QB Patrick Mahomes (knee - ACL) has been on IR since December 17, a devastating blow to the offense. Other long-term IR players include OT Wanya Morris (knee, Dec 13), CB Christian Roland-Wallace (back, Dec 6), and OT Josh Simmons (wrist, Dec 3).
Earlier season injuries persist, such as DT Omarr Norman-Lott (knee - ACL, Oct 21), DE Felix Anudike-Uzomah (hamstring, Oct 1), and CB Eric Scott Jr. (undisclosed, Oct 1). These absences have forced extensive rotations.
The injury wave impacts strategy, with coaches emphasizing depth players' readiness. Fans monitor official Chiefs.com updates for final game statuses.