qq. BREAKING: TWO Chiefs STARTERS OUT after West Nile Virus hits—Wednesday practice SHOCKER!
KANSAS CITY, MO — The Kansas City Chiefs opened their first full practice week preparing for the Buffalo Bills without two major contributors on offense, as running back Kareem Huntand right guard Trey Smithmissed Wednesday’s practice due to confirmed West Nile Virus infections.
Both players presented symptoms this week consistent with the mosquito-borne illness — including fatigue, muscle weakness and headaches — prompting immediate medical evaluation and rest protocols. The team’s training staff will reassess their statusday-to-day.
Despite the unexpected absences, Kansas City continued preparations with urgency as depth players stepped into larger roles.
Head coach Andy Reid addressed the situation carefully:
“It’s early in the week. We’ll see how they respond day by day. We’re not taking any risks — when they’re ready, they’re ready.”
Hunt remains a major piece of the Chiefs’ rushing attack, while Smith’s strength and physicality have played a huge role in protecting Patrick Mahomes against some of the most aggressive defensive fronts in the NFL.
With the team still days away from traveling to Buffalo, Kansas City remains hopeful that rest and treatment could give both players a chance to suit up on Sunday — but nothing is guaranteed.
As offensive adjustments were installed Wednesday, coaches emphasized continuity, with Mahomes spending extra reps alongside backup linemen and reserve running backs.
The Chiefs return to the field Thursday for what is expected to be a key indicator of possible availability heading into ahigh-stakes AFC showdown at Highmark Stadium.
For now, patience and preparation remain the strategy.
