Chiefs' Tamba Hali says he'll be 'ready to go' vs. Broncos
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Tamba Hali has made a speedy enough recovery from the ankle injury he suffered three days ago that he and his coaches believe there is a 'good chance' he will be cleared to play Sunday against the Denver Broncos.
'I'll be ready to go,' Hali said. 'If I wasn't feeling good today, I would tell you that I don't know. But where I'm at right now, I'm feeling very positive about playing on Sunday.'
Hali has missed only two games in his eight-year career - one because of an ankle injury in 2007, and one to serve a suspension last season.
The Chiefs have yet to clarify the status of outside linebacker Justin Houston, but the prognosis certainly does not look as good for Hali's pass rush partner. Houston dislocated his right elbow in Week 12 against the San Diego Chargers and was unable to undergo an MRI until Wednesday morning because the swelling had been too significant.
VIDEO: Where do recent losses leave Chiefs in latest power rankings?
Hali had to be driven to the locker room last weekend after getting his foot caught and ankle wrenched in the Arrowhead Stadium turf on the first play of the second quarter. He immediately feared the worst because of the severe pain and his inability to put weight on his right foot. But an MRI on Monday revealed only a first-degree sprain, and Hali is walking with ease now. He was healthy enough to participate in the Chiefs' walk-through but was held out of practice Wednesday afternoon.
'He's going to tell me he's going to play - that's what he's telling me at this moment,' head coach Andy Reid said of Hali.
'We have to make sure he's safe to be out there. We're not going to put him in position where he furthers the injury or something like that. But his desire is great.'
Hali is confident he can push off his right foot without pain, but he has yet to try making cuts or running since suffering the injury.
Frank Zombo would replace Houston if necessary against the Broncos in Week 13. Backup Dezman Moses could also see extended playing time if Hali is limited or unable to go.
***
Follow Lindsay H. Jones on Twitter @bylindsayhjones
Post a Comment for "Chiefs' Tamba Hali says he'll be 'ready to go' vs. Broncos"