Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu was back at practice on Thursday.
Although Mathieu remains in concussion protocol, the fact that the three-time Pro Bowl selection returned to practice can be construed as a positive.
“I thought he did a nice job, moved around well,” Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. “He was fine today, so he just has to go through the rest of the protocol here and finish that up, and make sure he’s OK as he goes through it.”
Mathieu was injured when teammate Jarran Reed’s knee inadvertently caught him in the head during Sunday’s AFC divisional-round clash against the Buffalo Bills.
Without Mathieu, the Chiefs were unable to contain Josh Allen and wide receiver Gabriel Davis, who connected for four touchdowns in the 42-36 overtime shootout.
If Mathieu isn’t cleared for the AFC Championship game against the visiting Cincinnati Bengals, he would be replaced by backup Daniel Sorensen. Sorensen, however, has one of the lower ratings in the NFL at the position, according to Pro Football Focus.
Mathieu, 29, recorded 76 tackles, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries in 16 games (all starts) this season.
Running back Darrel Williams was listed as limited in Thursday’s practice while dealing with a toe injury. He had been a full participant in practice on Wednesday.
–Field Level Media
