Major changes in the Chiefs-Lions game lineup have just been announced, and it's a real shake-up! Several key players are out, and the implications for the game are significant. Let's dive into who's sitting this one out and what it means for both teams.
For the Kansas City Chiefs, the biggest news is that left tackle Josh Simmons will not be playing due to personal reasons. This is a late development, as he was initially listed as questionable before being downgraded to out. According to reports, he's dealing with a family matter in California. Also out for the Chiefs are cornerback Kristian Fulton, tight end Jared Wiley, running back Elijah Mitchell, and defensive end Malik Herring.
On a positive note for the Chiefs, offensive lineman Hunter Nourzad is active for the first time this season. This could provide a boost to the offensive line, especially with Simmons out.
Interestingly, all Chiefs players were full participants in practice during the week, so there were no injury designations in the final report. However, the situation with Simmons changed on game day.
With Simmons out, Jaylon Moore will step in at left tackle. This will be his first start since late last season when he was with the San Francisco 49ers. It will be interesting to see how he performs in this crucial role.
And this is the part most people miss... Kansas City did not elevate any practice squad players for this game, which means they're relying on the players already on the active roster.
Now, let's turn our attention to the Detroit Lions. They've also announced their inactives, and there are some key names missing from their lineup. Cornerback Terrion Arnold (shoulder), linebacker Zach Cunningham (hamstring), and running back Sione Vaki (groin) will not be playing. Also out are tackle Taylor Decker (shoulder), defensive back Avonte Maddox (hamstring), safety Loren Strickland, and defensive lineman Mehki Wingo. However, there's good news for the Lions as defensive back Brian Branch (ankle), safety Kerby Joseph (knee), and wide receiver Kalif Raymond (neck) are all cleared to play.
Arnold, Cunningham, and Vaki were already declared out on Friday, so their absence isn't a surprise. Decker, Maddox, Branch, Joseph, and Raymond were listed as questionable, so their status was uncertain until now.
But here's where it gets controversial... On Saturday, the Lions made some roster moves, activating three players from their practice squad: defensive back Erick Hallett, defensive end Quinton Jefferson, and defensive back Nick Whiteside. To make room, they waived center Kingsley Eguakun and defensive tackle Chris Smith, and placed tackle Giovanni Manu on the Reserve/Injured list. All three newly signed players are dressing for the game. They also elevated two practice squad players for Sunday's game: tackle Devin Cochran and defensive back Arthur Maulet. Both are active for the matchup.
With so many changes on both sides, how do you think these absences will impact the game? Do you think the Lions' roster moves will give them an advantage? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
