Dee Ford injury update: Chiefs LB returns to practice
By Matt Conner
Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Dee Ford returned to practice as a full participant on Wednesday, which means good things for his chances to play in Week 6.
For the last two weeks, the Kansas City Chiefs have done without outside linebacker Dee Ford as he’s dealt with ongoing back issues. Fortunately, Ford has been able to feel enough relief to return to practice on Wednesday. Even better, he wasn’t simply limited, but he was able to return as a full participant for the Chiefs.
The good news is that the Chiefs continue to win despite such injuries to Ford and other players. That said, the Chiefs will certainly welcome Ford back with open arms for his pass rushing prowess. When playing opposite Justin Houston, offenses have to account for both in a way they don’t worry about when Frank Zombo is starting in Ford’s place.
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Ford led the Chiefs in 2016 in total sacks with 10, although he’s gotten off to a slower start in 2017 with only 1 sack in the Chiefs first three games—a takedown of Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback Carson Wentz. Last year was Ford’s breakout season and the Chiefs picked up the fifth year option on his contract earlier this year. The move gives them the chance to own his rights for the cost of the average top 25 paid players at his position (sans top 3).
During Ford’s absence, the Chiefs have had a difficult time getting to the quarterback. In Week 4, the Chiefs never got a single sack against Kirk Cousins in a win over Washington. The Chiefs managed to hit Deshaun Watson three times, but given the sad state of Houston’s offensive line, Ford would have likely helped pressure Watson even more.