Justin Houston returns to Chiefs practice

Dec 4, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates fourth quarter after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 29-28 at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston (50) celebrates fourth quarter after defeating the Atlanta Falcons 29-28 at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

The Kansas City Chiefs had their last practice of the week on Friday, and outside linebacker Justin Houston is on the field.

Kansas City is preparing for a huge game this Sunday at frigid Arrowhead Stadium, and it looks like one of its best players will be on the field. After being limited on Wednesday with an illness and out Thursday with a knee problem, reporters spotted outside linebacker Justin Houston on the practice field.

Houston is obviously of incredible importance to what the Chiefs want to accomplish. He’s only been back four games since returning from an ACL injury, and already has 4.5 sacks. Without him, Kansas City would have to rely heavily on Dee Ford and Tamba Hali, which is fine but puts more stress on the aging Hali.

The other factor to consider is how good Houston is against the run. He has been elite for some time in that space, holding the edge and forcing backs toward the interior where help is waiting.

Hopefully Houston was just resting this week and is indeed able to play. If he can, it appears the only player who might have to sit is corner Phillip Gaines, who missed the previous two practices with a knee injury.