Which KC Chiefs players will benefit most from first-round bye?
By Jacob Milham
The Kansas City Chiefs once again start the playoffs on the coveted bye week. Which players benefit the most from a week of rest?
To the chagrin of Cincinnati Bengals and Buffalo Bills fans, the Kansas City Chiefs are the AFC’s top-seeded team this postseason. It will be strange to go another Sunday without Chiefs football, but at least they will not be susceptible to a surprise upset or additional injuries entering the next week. The Chiefs can beat anyone in the playoffs, but their chances of losing increase by playing during Wild Card Weekend. Besides, the Chiefs already have enough injuries to heal after the regular season.
The Chiefs have been fairly lucky regarding major injuries this season. The only key player who won’t be in the playoffs is defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton, who suffered a torn ACL in Week 5.
In 2022, defensive backs Trent McDuffie, Hardman, and tight end Blake Bell also spent time on injured reserve. The wide receiver room has had consistent injuries or players missing on game day, but no season-ending injuries. Plus, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore will likely be back to 100% ahead of any divisional playoff game.
But there are plenty of lumps, bruises, and strains that the Chiefs players have. That is all part of playing football, especially in the NFL. However, it can undoubtedly impede any player during a game. The Chiefs want to be as fresh as can be en route to the Super Bowl. What Chiefs players will benefit the most from this bye week, and why will that be important for Kansas City?