Chiefs Missing Two Key Starters From Wednesday Practice With West Nile Virus Infection — Early Concerns Ahead of Bills Road Trip
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 Hunt
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 status
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 a
For now, patience and preparation remain the strategy.
Bills Sign Veteran Punter Cameron Johnston, Waive Brad Robbins
The Buffalo Bills have made a special teams shakeup ahead of Week 2. According to league sources, the team has officially signed veteran punter
Johnston, 32, brings a wealth of experience to Buffalo’s roster. The Australian-born punter has spent time with both the Philadelphia Eagles and Houston Texans, earning a reputation for consistency, hang time, and field-position control across seven NFL seasons.
In 2024 with Houston, Johnston averaged 46.2 yards per punt, pinning opponents inside the 20-yard line 28 times. His proven ability to flip the field makes him an immediate upgrade for a Bills team with playoff aspirations.
The move comes after Robbins struggled in the season opener, failing to generate the distance and placement the coaching staff expected. The 2023 sixth-round pick out of Michigan had been competing to secure a long-term role, but inconsistency cost him his spot.
For Buffalo, the decision reflects urgency. After surrendering 40 points in Week 1 despite a thrilling win over the Ravens, the team is clearly unwilling to leave any unit unchecked — including special teams.
Johnston will step in immediately as the starter, providing veteran stability ahead of a critical divisional matchup against the New York Jets in Week 2. His arrival also signals the Bills’ intent to prioritize field position in tightly contested games.
Fans have already reacted positively to the signing, calling Johnston a “steady hand” and praising the front office for addressing the issue quickly. With postseason expectations high, Buffalo is banking on the veteran’s leg to give them an edge.
