Despite the passing struggles of quarterback Patrick Mahomes to start this season, Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs (6-0) are now the only undefeated team remaining in the NFL following a 28-18 win over the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7.
Mahomes, a two-time NFL MVP, has thrown for six touchdowns and a league-leading eight interceptions through six games this season but has still found ways to win. A big reason for his struggles have been the multiple injuries the Chiefs have suffered at the wide receiver position.
Both Rashee Rice (ACL) and Marquise “Hollywood” Brown (shoulder) have already been ruled out for the remainder of the regular season. However, against the 49ers, Kansas City suffered another setback, as veteran JuJu Smith-Schuster reaggravated his hamstring, causing him to miss the entire fourth quarter.
Reid gave an update on the former USC Trojans receiver on Monday, revealing that Smith-Schuster will be out for Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster
Brett Davis-Imagn Images
With the latest injury, the Chiefs have found themselves short on receivers, with Xavier Worthy, Mecole Hardman and Skyy Moore being the top options left. However, after giving an update on Smith-Schuster, Reid hinted at a potential roster move Kansas City may have to make before the Raiders matchup.
“Really, all those guys on the practice squad, we’ve got trust and feel good about,” Reid said. “We’ve talked about it a little here. I’ll get a chance to talk to [Chiefs GM Brett Veach] here … and we’ll see.”
There are a few options for Reid on the current Chiefs practice squad, including third-year wideouts Justyn Ross and Montrell Washington and rookie Nikko Remigio.
Both Ross and Washington have been with the program for multiple years, so they should have no problem fitting in immediately. But any of these options would be a step down from the former Pro Bowler in Smith-Schuster.
The Chiefs and Raiders will meet on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET at Allegiant Stadium.