Which players will be sidelined for the Chiefs-Chargers AFC West clash?

The Kansas City Chiefs travel to California to face the Los Angeles Chargers in a match that could decide the winner of AFC West. Both teams though are dealing with injuries prior to the crucial game.

Blow to Chiefs defense

The Chiefs will be missing the services of key defensive starters. Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed will not be playing for a second consecutive week as he copes with the death of his older brother. Sneed was unable to return in time to join the team for practice on Wednesday.

Linebacker Willie Gay will also be out as he is on the reserve/covid-19 list and does not have enough time to clear himself out of the protocol. Standout defensive tackle Chris Jones is also on the reserve/covid-19 list and may be sidelined for Thursday Night Football as well.

Offensive guard Andrew Wylie is nursing a knee injury and has been listed as questionable, although he participated fully in practice the whole week.

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Questionable Chargers

The Chargers listed four players as questionable, although they were all able to join practice as limited participants. Three of them- Asante Samuel Jr., Derwin James, and Alohi Gilman- missed last week’s game against the New York Giants. As they were able to practice on Wednesday, they have a chance of playing on Thursday.

Running back Austin Ekeler, the fourth player listed as questionable, exacerbated an ankle injury in Week 14. If he plays he will likely do so with his ankle heavily taped.

Receiver Mike Williams was recovering from a heel injury but was a full participant at practice. Offensive tackle Rashawn Slater meanwhile has been ruled out of the match, as he is on the reserve/covid-19 list.

The Chargers host the Chiefs for Thursday Night Football at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Kickoff is at 8:20 p.m. ET / 5:20 p.m. PT.