>
Will JuJu Smith-Schuster Play vs. the Buccaneers? Week 9 Injury Status & Updates
Will JuJu Smith-Schuster Play vs. the Buccaneers? Week 9 Injury Status & Updates
Sprained MCL: The Cause of the Injury
JuJu Smith-Schuster, the wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, suffered a sprained MCL in his knee during the team's Week 8 loss to the Tennessee Titans. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter when Smith-Schuster was tackled by Titans safety Kevin Byard. Smith-Schuster was able to walk off the field under his own power, but he did not return to the game.
An MCL sprain is a ligament injury that occurs when the ligament is stretched or torn. The MCL is located on the inside of the knee and helps to stabilize the joint. MCL sprains are common injuries in football, and they can range in severity from mild to severe.
Latest Updates on his injury
Smith-Schuster underwent an MRI on Monday, which confirmed the MCL sprain. The Chiefs have not yet announced a timetable for Smith-Schuster's return, but he is expected to miss multiple games.
In a press conference on Monday, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid said that Smith-Schuster is “day-to-day” and that he will be evaluated on a weekly basis. Reid did not rule out the possibility of Smith-Schuster playing in Week 9 against the Buccaneers, but he said that it is too early to tell.
Impact on the chIefs
Smith-Schuster's injury is a significant blow to the Chiefs' offense. He is the team's leading receiver this season, with 57 receptions for 692 yards and four touchdowns. Smith-Schuster is also a key part of the Chiefs' red zone offense, and he has caught four touchdowns in the red zone this season.
With Smith-Schuster out, the Chiefs will need other receivers to step up. Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Skyy Moore, and Justin Watson are all expected to see increased roles in the offense. The Chiefs may also consider signing a free agent receiver to help fill the void left by Smith-Schuster.
Conclusion
JuJu Smith-Schuster's MCL sprain is a significant injury, and it is likely to keep him out of action for multiple games. The Chiefs will need other receivers to step up in his absence, and they may also consider signing a free agent receiver.