Chiefs training camp report: Frank Clark, Deon Yelder miss practice

The Kansas City Chiefs held their first padded practice on Friday.

The Kansas City Chiefs returned to the practice field on Friday for their first padded practice of the preseason, but they were missing a handful of players—some expected and other names that were new to the list.

According to head coach Andy Reid, the biggest name to not practice was Frank Clark, who was too ill to practice, although Reid noted, “Frank Clark has been sick. It’s not COVID.” From there, defensive lineman Devaroe Lawrence and linebacker Darius Harris were out with excused absences (personal reasons). Meanwhile, tight end Deon Yelder also sat with “a slight groin injury.”

In addition, three players who were placed on the physical unable to perform list sat out today’s padded practice as well: cornerback BoPete Keyes, offensive lineman Martinas Rankin, safety Juan Thornhill.

Reid sounded pleased with the attitude and effort of the players who were on the field in his press conference.

"“It’s good to get guys back in the pads and going. It’s been a bit of time, but we’ve had a great ramp-up period with them,” he said. “These guys have worked extremely hard. They came out today and worked extremely hard. With the pads on and with some heat out there. I’m proud of them for that. Their attitude is important, obviously, and they have a good one right now.”"

Reid also answered questions about Travis Kelce’s new extension, a four-year deal which will keep him in Kansas City through the 2025 season, assuming he’s healthy and still interested in playing. Reid was happy with the outcome and noted the hard work of everyone in the organization to make it happen.

"“Listen, my hat goes off to Clark Hunt,” he says. “That’s where it starts and his support of Brett Veach and Brett’s crew and working these deals and getting it done. Then we appreciate the players and their attitude. These are good guys and good football players who like to play the game, so you enjoy being around those guys and you’re proud of the effort they put into wanting to stay.”"

The Chiefs have 13 more padded practice sessions before they open the season against the visiting Houston Texans on September 10 on Thursday Night Football.