When it looked like Chargers All Pro left tackle Marcus McNiel would hold out, the team got some insurance by signing veteran tackle Tra Thomas.
Well their insurance policy just retired according to ESPN.com’s Adam Schefter via Twitter:
"Adam_SchefterSan Diego’s veteran OT Tra Thomas retired on his own today, at peace with his decision. One fewer OT for the Chargers."
This is especially damaging to the Chargers because yesterday the team placed McNiel and wide receiver Vincent Jackson on the Roster Exempt List.
What does that mean? Find out after the jump.
From Kevin Acee at Signonsandiego.com:
"Meanwhile, as of Friday night, Jackson and McNeill are now on the Roster Exempt List. That means they will miss at least the season opener, a distinction that is almost certainly moot based on the belief the pair is prepared to sit out most, if not all, of the season."
This is good news for the Chiefs. Now, not only will they not have to deal with Jackson and McNiel in the opener, they also won’t have to face Thomas.
The Chargers are a deep and talented team and they are still going to be difficult for the Chiefs to beat but these developments certainly don’t hurt KC’s chances of pulling off an upset in the season opener.
What do you think Addicts? How much will this help the Chiefs when the Chargers come to town for Monday Night Football?