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Chiefs HC Andy Reid's latest injury update doesn't bode well for rookie to make his debut in Week 1 vs. Chargers

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Nick Roesch | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 4:18 PM ET

As the Kansas City Chiefs finalize their initial 53-man roster for the 2025 season, they are also preparing to play the Los Angeles Chargers in 10 days.

That game will take place on Friday, September 5 in São Paulo, Brazil. One player who may not be available for the matchup is rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals. While speaking to the media on Tuesday, coach Andy Reid stated that defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott, linebacker Jack Cochrane, and Royals are still being held out of practice.

"The guys that won't practice today are Cochran, Omarr and Jalen Royals," Reid said. "They're all doing a good job, but they're (Cochrane and Norman-Lott) probably a little closer than Jalen is.

Chiefs HC Andy Reid says Jack Cochrane (knee), Omarr Norman-Lott (ankle), and Jalen Royals (knee) won't practice. Says Cochrane and ONL are closer than Royals to returning.
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) August 26, 2025

Royals has been dealing with knee tendonitis, which prevented him from playing in K.C.'s preseason finale against the Chicago Bears. There's no timeline on his recovery, but Reid saying that he's still a ways away doesn't bode well for his chances to suit up in Week 1.

It's an unfortunate break for Royals, who had an excellent training camp. The Chiefs have improved their depth at WR this past offseason, so it's not a huge deal if he has to miss a little time. However, it would be ideal for Royals to be available when Rashee Rice begins his suspension.

The good news is that Norman-Lott (ankle) and Cochrane (bone bruise) seem to be close to a return. The Chiefs are counting on Norman-Lott to develop into a key piece of their defensive line rotation, and Cochrane is a special teams ace and backup LB.

Among those who have returned from injury include tight end Jake Briningstool, cornerback Nazeeh Johnson, and offensive tackle Ethan Driskell — all of whom are currently on the roster bubble. As a whole, K.C. is looking pretty healthy heading into the regular season, which is the ultimate goal.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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