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Kansas City Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon expected to be active for Super Bowl LVIII against San Francisco 49ers

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Charles Goldman | Last updated Feb 11, 2024 4:58 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs are expected to see a major offensive playmaker return to the field for Super Bowl LVIII against the San Francisco 49ers.

According to a report from NFL Network's James Palmer, Chiefs RB Jerick McKinnon is expected to play in the Super Bowl against his former team. McKinnon was designated to return from injured reserve this week after having not played in a game since Week 15 due to a groin injury.

McKinnon was described as having a "slim" chance to play earlier in the practice week, but after a trio of limited practices, he was activated to the 53-man roster on Saturday.

There is a good chance the #Chiefs will have RB Jet McKinnon today. He’s considered a game time decision but he’s expected to go per source. Remarkable that’s he’s been able to get himself ready for this game.
— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) February 11, 2024

McKinnon had surgery for a core muscle injury in early January. It was discovered during surgery that he had a microfracture in his pelvis, too. To be able to come back and play in fewer than two months is an incredible display of toughness, yet it also might underscore something about the future for McKinnon. The soon-to-be 32-year-old running back has overcome many injuries during his career, and perhaps he envisions Super Bowl LVIII as his last rodeo.

Keep in mind that McKinnon is still considered a game-time decision, but short of a setback during pregame warm-ups, he's trending to be active for the game. Palmer followed up his report with some extra context surrounding why McKinnon feels the need to play against the 49ers.

McKinnon felt good during his rehab as it’s been steady progress day to day. This was a game he WILL NOT miss. Jet went through a lot mentally during his time with the 49ers and has been waiting for this match up since he came to KC.

McKinnon played for the 49ers from 2018 through 2020. There's a big chip on his shoulder heading into this Super Bowl matchup and McKinnon wants to be a part of it, no matter what.

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

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