Alex Smith to start, Spencer Ware probable and Justin Houston activated

The Kansas City Chiefs might get back a trio of very important players on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, according to head coach Andy Reid.

On Monday afternoon, Andy Reid addressed the local media at Arrowhead Stadium and talked about the upcoming week. Reid was immediately asked about the availability of Alex Smith this weekend, and Reid answered in the affirmative. Barring setback, it will be Smith under center for the Chiefs against the Carolina Panthers come Sunday.

In addition, Spencer Ware still needs to pass his concussion protocol, but Reid says there is a “good chance” that Ware can return to action. After watching how badly Kansas City struggled to run the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Ware’s return will be more than welcome.

Finally, the head coach spoke about Justin Houston. Houston, who has missed the entire season with a non-functioning ACL rehab program, has been practicing in a limited capacity the past three weeks. The deadline to put him on the active roster is Wednesday, or the Chiefs would have to place him on Injured Reserve.

Reid said the team would activate Houston by Wednesday and did not rule out his ability to play come Sunday. While it seemed as though the Chiefs plan to maintain caution with Houston, the chance remains we finally see him on the field this weekend.