Three KC Chiefs players fans might not see again in 2022

Tight end Blake Bell

Amongst Kansas City’s depth players, there was no surer thing than tight end Blake Bell. But a preseason injury could keep him out of the regular season and beyond.

Bell is not a young player with immense potential but rather a seasoned veteran with a clear role: blocking. Despite playing in 16 regular-season games in 2021, Bell was only targeted 13 times. The former quarterback is just not known for his receiving chops. But his blocking and scheme versatility (looking at you, Andy Reid) make him a valuable asset to the Chiefs. He is one of the few remaining players from Kansas City’s Super Bowl-winning 2019 squad. His being around in 2022 was a no-brainer until it wasn’t.

Bell left the Chiefs’ preseason opener against the Chicago Bears due to a hip flexor injury. Oddly enough, the injury occurred on Bell’s touchdown catch. Chiefs fans were confused when Bell left the game because he did not seem hobbled or shaken up. But he still has not seen in-game action since.

When Chiefs head coach Andy Reid described Bell’s injury as “unusual,”  that only further muddied the waters. Reid was upfront, at least saying he didn’t think Bell’s return was “going to be real quick.” The Chiefs have barely brought up Bell this season, not inspiring any confidence regarding his return.

Even if Bell was healthy, the Chiefs’ 53-man roster does not have a clear spot for him. The tight end room’s solid play this season makes having Bell back a small luxury, not a dire need. All signs point to Bell not being available during this season, and call his career outlook into question.