Chiefs remove Tamba Hali from PUP list

The Kansas City Chiefs have removed outside linebacker Tamba Hali from the PUP list.

After spending the first three weeks of August on the Physically Unable to Perform list, the Chiefs have loosened the reins on Tamba Hali. Hali, 32, will finally be allowed to practice with the team this week, albeit on a limited basis.

Look for the Chiefs to treat Hali in the same way they are with Jamaal Charles. Charles originally came back with only individual drills and now is mixing into team activities. He is still yet to play in any contact drills. Hali will likely do the same, with Kansas City still having a few weeks before the regular-season opener against the San Diego Chargers on Sept. 11.

Last year, Hali was able to total only six sacks and was hampered by a broken thumb and a bad knee throughout much of the second half. At 32 years old, one should expect Hali to continually slow down, especially since he has to carry much of the burden with Justin Houston out.

Hali did remain as one of the best in football in terms of getting pressure on the quarterback. Perhaps just as important, Hali sets the edge very well in the run game, something the outside linebackers are struggling with in preseason.

Don’t expect Hali to see a snap in either of the upcoming preseason games. He will be making his debut in the regular season, which is fine considering his age and experience.

Kansas City desperately needs Hali to come back in fine form. The defense has been nothing less than a complete mess to this point in preseason, giving up multiple touchdown drives to the immortal Case Keenum.