Chiefs Suffer Double Loss Before Jets Game

Both players have had their seasons interrupted by injuries. Woods suffered a neck injury during last Sunday’s loss to Denver and was unable to return. Delane, meanwhile, has been dealing with a right shoulder problem that kept him out of the same game. The cornerback had also been working his way back after the issue affected him earlier in the season.

Reid has now confirmed that neither rookie will be available when the Chiefs host the Jets. Woods and Delane are both ruled out for Sunday, although the head coach offered some encouragement about their recovery. 

“They’re making progress, so that’s a positive thing,” Reid said of the two players, according to ESPN’s Nate Taylor.

Woods’ absence leaves Kansas City with another adjustment to make along its defensive front. He has recorded 13 tackles, half a sack and a pass deflection this season, while playing a significant part in the team’s defensive line rotation. The Chiefs will need their other interior defenders to take on more responsibility against New York.

Delane’s status is equally significant for the secondary. The rookie has recorded 27 tackles, five passes defended and an interception in five games. His ability to challenge opposing receivers has been valuable, and Kansas City will have to lean on its remaining cornerbacks to cover his snaps.

The Chiefs will hope the progress Reid mentioned leads to both players returning soon.