Justin Houston injury update: Chiefs linebacker returns to practice

The Kansas City Chiefs got some good news on Wednesday with the return of Justin Houston to practice after dealing with a hamstring injury.

The Kansas City Chiefs pass rush is looking strong with the presence of Dee Ford on the roster and a solid pass rushing effort overall from other names like Allen Bailey and Chris Jones. Fortunately, the front seven is on track to get even stronger with the return of Justin Houston from a hamstring injury.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid reported to the media today that Justin Houston was expected to return to practice on Wednesday after missing the last three games—a tough stretch that included the team’s only loss against the New England Patriots.

The absence of Houston in the line-up has led to a wide array of new players trying to take his place. The Chiefs re-signed Frank Zombo shortly after Houston was first injured along with free agent outside linebacker Nate Orchard. Zombo was injured on Sunday and his status is yet unknown for Week 9. In Houston’s absence, fellow linebacker Dee Ford has seen more attention and focus from defensive coordinators, but he continues to enjoy a very strong year and was even named the AFC’s Defensive Player of the Week in Week 8 in the team’s win over the Denver Broncos.

Houston is still considered the team’s best pass rusher and is also the most expensive defender on the roster. With Ford’s presence, the team could boast one of the NFL’s best pass rushing units if Houston is able to return healthy to the field on Sunday. For now the Chiefs are taking it easy with Houston and letting him rest for the stretch run.

Houston has three sacks and two forced fumbles on the year for the Chiefs through five games.