The Kansas City Chiefs start off another week without LB Justin Houston participating in practice. Per Chiefs coach Andy Reid, Houston is among a number of players who will not be practicing on Wednesday.
Husain Abdullah, Justin Houston, De'Anthony Thomas, Spencer Ware and Tamba Hali won't practice today, Per #Chiefs coach Andy Reid.
— BJ Kissel (@ChiefsReporter) December 16, 2015
This doesn't mean Houston will be out this weekend but it's not a great sign. He hyperextended his knee against the Bills and has missed the past two weeks. Dee Ford put up a below average performance in his first week as Houston's understudy and then exploded for three sacks last week. Clearly, the Chiefs are better when Houston plays but it's not an awful consolation prize to see more out of Ford (as long as they don't lose).
Also of note is that the Chiefs will be practicing without RB Spencer Ware, who hurt his ribs in last week's game. He was said to be in pain although it's not clear if he's an option this week. Charcandrick West continues to get the most snaps so the Chiefs can get by either way.
WR De'Anthony Thomas remains out, which is notable because Frankie Hammond fumbled a punt last week. The Chiefs need someone sure-handed returning punts.
S Husain Abdullah has not passed the concussion protocol but he's close, according to Andy Reid.
Tamba Hali often gets Wednesdays off for a rest day, which I assume this is.