Raiders' Joseph ruled out for Thursday vs. Chiefs

The Oakland Raiders will be without a key member of the secondary for an AFC West showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday night.

Still recovering from a toe injury suffered in Sunday's win over the Buffalo Bills, first-round rookie safety Karl Joseph was officially ruled out as part of the club's official injury report.

Joseph's absence is a major blow to the Oakland defense. His ability to both match up with opposing tight ends and contribute as a run defender has made him a difference-maker since he was inserted into the starting lineup back in Week 3.

Veteran defensive back Nate Allen, who stepped in for the standout first-round pick following the injury this past week, will draw the start alongside Reggie Nelson on the back end.

The Raiders will hope that Joseph can make use of the additional rest that follows the Thursday nighter and get back in the lineup for their Week 15 matchup with the San Diego Chargers.