Mandatory Credit; David Eulitt/Getty Images
Losing Tyreek Hill for an extended period of time would be a setback for the Kansas City Chiefs, but they have more than enough to keep winning.
Tyreek Hill was tackled by Jalen Ramsey on an innocent-looking play in the second quarter. It was his last snap of the day.
Hill left with a shoulder injury, one that is now being speculated as a collarbone injury. If Hill broke the bone, he would be looking at a few months on the shelf. The Kansas City Chiefs should eagerly await his return should the worst-case scenario present itself, but there should be no panic.
Largely without Hill, Kansas City rolled up 40 points and 491 yards against one of the league’s best defenses in the Jacksonville Jaguars. Sammy Watkins went great guns, notching nine receptions for 198 yards an three touchdowns. Travis Kelce chipped in with three catches and 88 yards. LeSean McCoy showed he isn’t done, contributing with 93 yards on 12 total touches. In short, the weapons remain elite and diverse.
Even if Hill has to miss significant time, he should be back for the stretch drive. The Chiefs don’t play the Los Angeles Chargers until Week 11 and won’t see the New England Patriots until Week 14. Beyond those tilts, their toughest road test is likely Week 16 against the Chicago Bears.
Hill’s speed and the ability to make plays after the catch will be missed, but somewhat mitigated by Watkins and second-round rookie receiver Mecole Hardman. Hardman will certainly be asked to do more, especially after posting zero yards in his debut. Demarcus Robinson will also be leaned on increasingly as the team’s likely second option on the outside in Hill’s potential absence.