Kansas City Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston is expected to sit out in Week 17 against the Oakland Raiders.
Justin Houston has elevated himself into one of the best defensive players in the NFL. After a truly outstanding 22 sack season last year, he signed a huge contract with the Kansas City Chiefs after being initially franchise tagged by John Dorsey. This year, Houston has not recreated his incredible sack numbers, but he has been effective for the Chiefs.
However, he suffered a hyper extended knee in the Week 12 win against the Buffalo Bills and has been absent ever since. The long awaited return for the pro bowl linebacker occurred this past week, when he was back on the practice field. However, with the Chiefs looking toward bigger and better things in the playoffs, Andy Reid has chosen to not utilize his star pass rusher.
Chiefs OLB Justin Houston returned to practice on Friday, but the expectation has been that he'll sit out today's game against Oakland.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) January 3, 2016
It is not the most surprising move by the Chiefs. They have aspirations of finally winning a play off game, something that has not happened since Joe Montana was under center. However, Kansas City has a top quality defense and efficient offense and will be hoping to finally break the postseason duck. For this to even be imagined, Justin Houston needs to be back on the field wreaking havoc.
It is an unnecessary risk with the postseason already guaranteed and a divisional title unlikely, so keeping Houston on the sidelines, wrapped in cotton wool is an expected, but wise move.