As the Kansas City Chiefs hit the practice field to prepare for the Indianapolis Colts, every player was able to participate at some level, including LT Branden Albert, TE Anthony Fasano, LB Justin Houston and WR Dexter McCluster.
All four starters missed last week’s win over the Oakland Raiders, but could be poised to suit up this weekend.
Houston has missed the last three games with asubluxed elbow, an injury he suffered a month ago against the San Diego Chargers. Two of the three games he was on the sidelines, the Chiefs defense failed to record a sack, so obviously getting him back on the field would be huge for defensive coordinator Bob Sutton. As a limited participant, there’s still no guarantee Houston will be able to play Sunday.
A hyper-extended knee has kept Albert out during the Chiefs last two wins and Donald Stephenson has been solid filling in. Another limited participant, Albert is sill “easing” back into practice and won’t be rushed back.
Of all the limited participants, McCluster could be the most intriguing. He was a surprise addition to the injury report last week and then was a scratch over the weekend thanks to an infection in his ankle. His absence forced the team to re-sign Chad Hall to handle punt returns and if McCluster ends up back near 100%, another roster move could be coming.
Fasano has missed two straight games with a concussion (and six overall this season), but was a full participant Wednesday. The Chiefs obviously are still worried about his availability, thus the decision to sign backup Richard Gordon.
The other five players on the first Chiefs injury report of the week were able to participate fully, including right tackle Eric Fisher. A shoulder injury forced him out of last week’s game and until Albert returns Fisher is a huge part of the Kansas City offensive line.
The Colts initial injury report lists 13 players, including nine that were unable to practice.
Chiefs
Full Participation
Anthony Fasano
Eric Fisher
James-Michael Johnson
Nico Johnson
Sean McGrath
Ron Parker
Limited Participation
Branden Albert
Justin Houston
Dexter McCluster
Colts
Full Participation
LaVon Brazill
Donald Brown
Gregory Toler
Limited Participation
Samson Satele
Did Not Participate
Daniel Adongo
Sergio Brown
Ricky Jean Francois
Stanley Havili
Montori Hughes
Jeff Linkenbach
Robert Mathis
Joe Reitz
Hugh Thornton
