The Kansas City Chiefs answered many of the questions regarding their revamped secondary in Monday's 31-10 victory versus the Denver Broncos. Rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane inspired a ton of confidence after posting an All-American campaign with LSU, but fans felt less sure about KC's reunion with L'Jarius Sneed. The two-time Super Bowl champion enjoyed a triumphant return to Arrowhead Stadium, looking right at home after a two-year stint with the Tennessee Titans. It is not all good news for the veteran CB, however. Sneed is nursing a knee injury and is seemingly trending in the wrong direction.
The 29-year-old was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, but he was downgraded to limited on Thursday, per Chiefs senior reporter Matt McMullen. Sneed's level of activity on Friday could determine his status for a Sunday night meeting with the Indianapolis Colts. Delane, who suffered a shoulder injury against the Broncos, has logged consecutive full practices.
Sneed recorded seven solo tackles in the season opener, five more than the next highest Chiefs player. He was also effective in coverage, doing his part to prevent Denver from getting many explosive plays. The 2020 fourth-round draft pick appeared to be rejuvenated, unrecognizable from the man who scuffled in Tennessee. But one does not mention L'Jarius Sneed these days without also discussing his health.
He played in only 12 games combined for the Titans and will turn 30 in January. His durability will be worth tracking, and not just ahead of the Colts game. The Chiefs' defense flourished in Week 1, but they may require Sneed's versatility and experience in order to sustain a high level of production throughout the season.