NFL notes: Chiefs’ Hali to play vs Denver; Houston out
The Kansas City Chiefs will have one-half of their fearsome pass-rushing duo available when they face Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Tamba Hali pronounced himself close to 100 percent after spraining his right ankle in last week’s loss to San Diego. Meanwhile, fellow linebacker Justin Houston is considered “week to week” after dislocating his right elbow against the Chargers.
Chiefs coach Andy Reid also said that right guard Jon Asamoah and right tackle Eric Fisher, who missed last week’s game with shoulder injuries, will be available.
It’s a crucial game between 9-2 teams that are tied atop the AFC West. The Broncos won their first meeting two weeks ago at Mile High Stadium.
“Asamoah, Fisher, Tamba all practiced today, they all practiced yesterday and they moved around great,” Reid said, “so we’ll see how they do.”
Hali initially thought his injury was more serious when he limped off the field. He was helped to the locker room, where he watched the rest of the Chiefs’ 41-38 loss.
He did work in a pool and on a stair climber earlier in the week, and only then did he think that there was a chance he’d play against the Broncos.
“With the pain I had on Sunday, it was like, man, I should probably just get ready for the playoffs,” Hali said Friday. “Tuesday, I came in trying to baby it, but I could move more. That’s when I knew that I was going to be able to play.”
Hali said he doesn’t like to say he’s “100 percent,” but after spending Friday’s practicing cutting and changing directions, “I’m to the point where I can do what I like doing.”
Reid said he does not believe Houston’s injury will be season-ending.
Around the league
N.Y. Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul, CB Trumaine McBride, RB Brandon Jacobs and CB Corey Webster have been ruled out for Sunday night’s game at Washington. … Pittsburgh CB William Gay has been fined $15,750 by the league for his unnecessary hit last Sunday that gave Browns QB Jason Campbell a concussion. … Miami DE Cameron Wake also drew a $15,750 fine for roughing the passer when he hit Carolina’s Cam Newton in the head and neck area.