Full Breakdown
Chiefs Face Growing Injury List Ahead of Preseason Week 3
8/27/2026, 1:08:10 AM
Core Update: Injury Status Before Seattle Game
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid gave an injury briefing on August 25, 2026 ahead of the preseason matchup with the Seattle Seahawks. Running back Kenneth Walker III missed practice for the second straight day because a shoe is causing ankle swelling. Starting quarterback Patrick Mahomes will also sit out the preseason game, marking the first time in his career he has missed every preseason contest. Right guard Trey Smith returned to practice after a hip injury but is not expected to play. Reid listed additional absentees, including left tackle Josh Simmons (back), defensive end Tyreke Smith (hamstring), safety Chamarri Conner, linebacker Jack Cochrane, defensive end Ashton Gillotte, wide receiver Jimmy Holiday, and quarterback Chris Oladokun (concussion protocol). In total, as many as 14 players could sit out the Seattle game.
Background & Context
The Chiefs enter the third preseason week with a roster already thinned by injuries from training camp and the first two exhibition games. The Seattle contest is the final preseason test before the regular-season opener against the Denver Broncos. Coach Reid emphasized that managing health now is intended to preserve player availability for the regular season.
Data & Statistics
- Players out for Week 3: Kenneth Walker III, Patrick Mahomes, Trey Smith (practice only), Josh Simmons, Tyreke Smith, Chamarri Conner, Jack Cochrane, Ashton Gillotte, Jimmy Holiday, Chris Oladokun, CJ Hanson, Jeff Caldwell (waived with injury designation), Alohi Gilman (back spasms).
- Total sidelined: up to 14 players.
- Walker’s contract: three-year deal after a 1,027-yard, five-touchdown season.
Official Statements & Responses
Reid described Walker’s ankle issue as shoe-related and said the team is “trying to get that down.” He noted Mahomes’ recovery is being handled “day by day” with final clearance pending. Mahomes told reporters he is following the plan to be ready for Week 1, emphasizing daily preparation and confidence in his knee’s condition.
Verbatim Quotes
- “His shoe has been causing some swelling on his ankle,” — Andy Reid, Chiefs head coach
- “Well, we'll see how he does today, ease him back in, but he wants to get out there and get going,” — Andy Reid, Chiefs head coach
- “This has always been the plan,” — Patrick Mahomes
- “I try to not make those hard cuts, but at the end of the day I'm a competitor,” — Patrick Mahomes
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Mahomes’ clearance: Reid’s “day-by-day” stance contrasts with Mahomes’ statement that the recovery plan is on track, leaving his exact status for the Week 1 home game against Denver uncertain.
- Walker’s availability: Reid indicated the ankle swelling is equipment-related, but no definitive timeline was given for his return to regular-season action.
What’s Next
The Chiefs will assess player health during the final preseason practices before the regular-season home opener against the Denver Broncos. Coach Reid said decisions will be based on medical evaluations and player readiness in the days leading up to that game.
