The Kansas City Chiefs will miss an important offensive weapon when they face the Cleveland Browns in the divisional round of the playoffs this weekend.
The team released their injury report for the Browns’ game on Friday, revealing that wideout Sammy Watkins won’t be on the active roster. According to the report, Watkins is dealing with a calf injury that prevented him from taking part in practice for the entire week.
It is unclear whether the 27-year-old player will be on the Chiefs’ disposal if the team makes it to the AFC Championship game.
Watkins was one of Kansas City’s standout players during last season’s Super Bowl run, making 14 catches for 288 yards and a touchdown. Still, the Chiefs’ head coach Andy Reid believes his team will be just fine.
“I don’t think anyone blinks on that,” said Reid about Watkins’ absence. “You just giddyup and go. That’s not because Sammy is not a great player. That’s not it. That’s just one of those things, how this team is wired.”
Sammy Watkins struggled with injuries during the regular season as well, being forced to miss six games. He finished the year with 37 catches for 421 yards and two scores.
With Watkins out, the Chiefs are expected to give a more prominent role to Demarcus Robinson against Cleveland. Second-year player and return specialist Mecole Hardman and veteran Byron Pringle could also see increased playing time.
