Chiefs' Roster Devastated by Injuries Before Christmas Game

As the Kansas City Chiefs prepare to host Denver on Christmas night, their roster is severely depleted with 19 players on injured reserve. The team's injury list includes starting cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, as well as starting wide receiver Rashee Rice, all placed on IR this week. They join previously injured quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew, alongside starting offensive tackles Josh Simmons and Jawaan Taylor.

The team's injury issues intensified following Thanksgiving, with multiple offensive linemen sustaining injuries in recent weeks. Backup tackle Wanya Morris and Jaylon Moore have also been sidelined. Defensive players like linebacker Leo Chenal are also out with injuries, further thinning the squad. This marks a stark contrast to their earlier season health.

Once considered one of the league's healthiest teams in late November, the Chiefs have seen a dramatic influx of players onto injured reserve. This widespread availability crisis impacts crucial positions, testing the team's depth and resilience as they head into a key holiday matchup.