The Kansas City Chiefs appear to be getting healthy at the right time with two of their star players expected to return to the practice field after being injured, beginning the next phase of their rehab toward getting back into the lineup.
Kicker Harrison Butker (knee) and wide receiver Hollywood Brown (shoulder) began their 21-day practice window on Wednesday. It’ll be up to the coaches to decide if both players are ready to return to the active roster or stay on IR depending on how they look over the next three weeks.
In his Wednesday presser, head coach Andy Reid told reporters he plans to use the next 21 days to ease both players back into their everyday routines.
“We’re going to see how he does here,” said Reid, referring to Harrison Butker. “He’ll have a few snaps out there.”
Both players suffered injuries at different times during the 2024 season. Butker suffered a meniscus tear in November, while Hollywood Brown injured his shoulder in the first game of the preseason back in August.
The Chiefs made do with the wide receivers they have available but could use an extra boost. Reid said Hollywood is close to making his return.
“[Hollywood Brown] is getting close,” Reid began. “He’s chomping at the bit to get back out there but he’s got to visit with the doctors and make sure he gets clearance there, but I think, I’d probably say he’s getting close. I can’t give you a date, but he says he feels great.”
Brown is scheduled with the doctors who worked on his shoulder in Week 15 for final testing to ensure it’s fully healed. If that’s the case, then he’ll be cleared to play as early as the Chiefs’ Week 16 matchup against the Houston Texans.
The Chiefs have dealt with a list of circumstances regarding injuries. Alas, they’re still 12-1 on the season and clinched the AFC West and a playoff berth.
Getting two more of their stars back will help bolster the Chiefs’ roster going into the final stretch.
