Chiefs Injury Update: Joe Thuney, Prince Tega Wanogho are out, Jerick McKinnon is doubtful for Super Bowl LVIII

The Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers are gearing up to secure the coveted Super Bowl LVIII title on February 11. Both teams have already arrived in Las Vegas, and completed their interview sessions with various media outlets.

The Chiefs and 49ers players are now practicing to prepare themselves for the upcoming clash. This year’s Super Bowl is significant for the Chiefs, as they are on their way to secure consecutive Lombardi trophies. However, injury updates for guard Joe Thuney, tackle Prince Tega Wanogho, and running back Jerick McKinnon are going to be a headache for them.

Joe Thuney and Prince Tega Wanogho are out for Super Bowl LVIII

The Chiefs announced on Friday that Prince Tega Wanogho and Joe Thuney had been ruled out for the match against the 49ers, via ESPN.

Wanogho’s return to practice on Jan. 24 raised hopes, but a lingering quadriceps injury dashed any chance of his inclusion on the active roster. The decision not to reinstate him highlights the severity of the injury that marred his season. This continuous setback has kept him on the injured reserve since Sept. 27.

The sixth-round draft pick had shown promise in the limited snaps he played before his injury. He is the only former Auburn player on the Super Bowl LVIII teams’ rosters and is in his third season with the Chiefs. The veteran played two offensive snaps in the first two games.

Meanwhile, Thuney sustained a pectoral injury in the Chiefs’ victory over the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round of the AFC playoffs. He got ruled out for the match against the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game. Coach Andy Reid earlier acknowledged the slim possibility of the guard’s participation, citing the challenges of regaining play strength after such an injury.

However, the footballer couldn’t appear in the practice session, and so ruling him out was the best choice. Nick Allegretti is set to step into his shoes at left guard. Nick had previously started against the Ravens as well.

Will Jerick McKinnon play in Super Bowl LVIII?

The Chiefs are preparing to face the 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII, and Jerick McKinnon’s participation in the game remains uncertain. He is currently recovering from a groin injury and his status for the championship clash is still uncertain.

The RB was designated for a return from injured reserve, but he has been limited in practice throughout the week. His performance in practice could sway the decision, regardless of the initial skepticism from head coach Andy Reid about his chances of suiting up.

McKinnon has proven his versatility by making significant contributions as both a rusher and a pass-catcher during the 2023 season. In 12 games, he had an impressive stat line of 25 receptions for 192 yards and four touchdowns. He also contributed 60 rushing yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. The Chiefs must seriously consider the potential impact of his absence in crucial situations.

The RB played a crucial role during the Chiefs’ last Super Bowl victory. He contributed to the team’s success with three receptions for 15 yards and four rushes for 34 yards. If he is activated from injured reserve before the final deadline, he has the potential to regain his position as the Chiefs’ preferred back in passing situations.