Kelce uncertain for opener after hyperextending knee in practice
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce's status for Thursday's season-opener against the Detroit Lions is uncertain after the star hyperextended his knee during Tuesday's practice, head coach Andy Reid announced, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
The Chiefs believe Kelce's ACL is intact after he underwent tests Tuesday, sources told Schefter.
There is reportedly inflammation in his knee and he'll be tested again Wednesday to determine his availability for Thursday night. Specifically, Kelce is dealing with a bone bruise, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
"We'll just see how he does going forward," said Reid.
Kelce is the key pass-catcher in the reigning champions' offense and is again set up to be Patrick Mahomes' favorite target in 2023.
The 33-year-old produced career highs in catches (110) and touchdown receptions (12) last season while also racking up 1,338 yards. It was Kelce's seventh straight 1,000-yard campaign, earning him his seventh All-Pro nomination and eighth Pro Bowl nod.
If Kelce is forced to miss the first game of the season, Noah Gray and Blake Bell will be the Chiefs' two top tight ends.
Kansas City should have Kadarius Toney available after Reid said last week that the wideout is on track to play after missing most of training camp with a knee injury. Fellow receivers Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore will likely act as Mahomes' other top weapons.
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