Laurent Duvernay-Tardif isn’t back all the way from a concussion, but his return to practice is a good sign for the Chiefs.
The Kansas City Chiefs have a single date in mind: September 9.
All of the team’s activities, concerns, goals and planning are likely centered around that very date at this point, the moment they kick off their regular season against the Los Angeles Chargers to open the 2018 campaign. Until then, it’s all preseason, filled with practices and drills and games that won’t be remembered even the day after they’re played.
This is important because it is also the date circled when it comes to player health. The Chiefs are aiming to have the healthiest roster possible by September 9 and are being cautious with a number of players in view of that date. Eric Berry and his sore heel have been held out of several practices and might sit the rest of the preseason. Reggie Ragland wants to get out there, but there’s no need for the Chiefs to rush him back from a swollen knee.
Laurent Duvernay-Tardif has been held out with a concussion for several days. Stuck in the league’s concussion protocol (as he very well should be), fans have been waiting to hear whether the team’s starting guard is okay, waiting for signs of any progress. Fortunately some news appeared on Thursday with word that LDT had returned for a “light practice.”
It’s likely going to take some time until Duvernay-Tardif is only back at full strength but the Chiefs have that time built in. They’re still a couple weeks away from the start of the season and that gives the line plenty of time to settle other roster spots while giving Duvernay-Tardif time to rest.
Here’s hoping the LDT continues to slowly work his way back into the rhythm of the NFL schedule without any setbacks. Given the time left, there’s no reason the Chiefs can’t ensure that happens.