How will key injured players return for the Kansas City Chiefs?

Spencer Ware

The first casualty the Chiefs suffered prior to the 2017 season, Ware tore his MCL and PCL in the third preseason game against the Seattle Seahawks. This was a huge blow for the team, especially with the injury coming in a preseason game. Ware led the Chiefs in rushing in 2016 with 921 yards and 3 touchdowns and was expected to be the lead back in 2017 with the exodus of Jamaal Charles.

Spencer Ware is a power back who can also catch the ball out of the backfield. As the Chiefs continue to find weapons for Patrick Mahomes to utilize in his first season as a starter, we cannot forget about Ware. With plenty of experience in Andy Reid’s offense, Ware can be used as a versatile 3rd down back to relieve Kareem Hunt. Hunt and Ware can form one of the most dynamic backfields in the league this coming year, and punch the ball down the throats of their weekly opponents.

There are a couple of questions that must be answered relatively soon about Ware’s return:

First, can he return to the form that he was in before his 2017 preaseason injury? It is important to consider the degree of a player’s injury before throwing them back into the fire. Allowing a player to hit the field before the injury is fully healed is dangerous and only puts them at a greater risk for injury again. Will Ware be ready to go for week 1, and will he be the same player?

Second, with all the new additions that the Chiefs have made in the offseason this year, will they be looking to trade Ware for additional assets? Ware has proven to be a viable starter in his young NFL career, and should he return to his previous form, could be an attractive option for teams with a need at running back. Damien Williams, Kerwynn Williams, and undrafted free agent Darrel Williams will all come into camp and compete for a roster spot. There is no telling which of the backs will stick on the roster, as Ware and Charcandrick West will be in the mix as well.

Regardless of what happens, Spencer Ware will be healthy for this coming season and will be able to contribute out of the backfield.