Chiefs Injury Update: Is Jerick McKinnon (Groin) Playing? Exploring #1 Jet’s Realistic Chances in Super Bowl Matchup

The Super Bowl LVIII is just a day away! As both teams grind hard to grab the Lombardi Trophy in the big showdown, fans are also on the edge of their seats regarding this mega showdown. While many factors play a crucial role in this super clash, injuries and player availability always take center stage. Along these lines, Jerick McKinnon might not participate in the Super Bowl LVIII.

The Chiefs are arguably the favorites to win the Super LVIII. If they manage to achieve this feat, it’ll be their fourth Super Bowl victory. Alas! Their preparations appear to have met a hurdle in the form of Jerick McKinnon’s injury. The running back incurred a groin injury in Week 15 against the matchup against the New England Patriots. Previously, NFL insider Ian Rapoport hinted at the running backs’ potential return to the matchup. But a recent update of Kansas City Chiefs begs to differ.

Jerick Mckinnon’s return is in a questionable state

Initially, it was speculated that Jerick Mckinnon might return to the Kansas City Chiefs’ camp. Also, NFL insider Ian Rapoport’s post that read, “RB Jerick McKinnon has been designated to return off injured Reserve,” somehow sparked hope for his return. However, the latest X post of the Kansas City Chiefs hints toward an update that does not spell good news for the Red Army. 

The post stated, “Jerick McKinnon is questionable for Super Bowl LVIII.” Furthermore, it revealed that Joe Thurney and Prince Tega Wanogho are out of the matchup. McKinnon suffered a pelvis injury in week 15, leading to his placement on the injured list.

Besides that, he underwent surgery on January 2, which probably sparked his return. Plus, his presence will be highly beneficial for the Chiefs, considering his remarkable performances in the past. He is an integral part of Chief’s offensive strategy. He rushed for 413 yards over three seasons and caught 94 passes for 811 yards.

The champ splashed in the Super Bowl last season against the Eagles, where the Chiefs turned victorious with a 35-38 score. He caught three passes for 15 yards and ran the ball four times for 34 yards. Given these accolades, his absence could be a costly decision to make. Even Andy Reid turned skeptical about McKinnon’s return.

Andy Reid remained doubtful about McKinnon!

The Chiefs’ backbone, Andy Reid, appeared this Tuesday to discuss the players who will play in Super Bowl LVIII. He talked about the status of players who have incurred injuries, including Kadarius Toney, Joe Thuney, and Jerick McKinnon. As the discussion progressed about McKinnon’s presence in the Super Bowl, Reid turned a little cryptic. He said, “Jerick is not practicing. I will tell you. It’s slim for him to be out there.“

Hard-running Isiah Pacheco and McKinnon have been spotted working together on numerous occasions as the Chiefs led an attack with multiple running backs. Where Pacheco takes the early downs typically, McKinnon takes care of the passing situations. Many analysts credit McKinnon’s ability to pick up blitzes which is an undercover skill.

Read More: Double Blow for Chiefs as Kadarius Toney, Jerick McKinnon Ruled Out of Christmas Game vs. Raiders.

Besides McKinnon, other players on the injury list include Jody Forston, Nazeeh Johnson, Cam Jones, and Charles Omenihu. Considering all these points, it’s hard to determine if McKinnon will appear in the game. Or does Isiah Pacheco continue to take on his role in the matchup in McKinnon’s absence? But what are your thoughts on that? Will he return?

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