Drue Tranquill, a key linebacker for the Kansas City Chiefs, faced an apparent injury during their Week 13 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. This occurrence compounded the Chiefs’ existing roster challenges, with Tranquill’s departure marking another setback for the team.
The injury unfolded during a play at the Green Bay 34-yard line, where Tranquill encountered AJ Dillon during a rushing attempt. The collision seemingly involved Tranquill’s head/shoulder area being struck by Dillon’s knee, leading to Tranquill remaining on the field, requiring assistance from the Chiefs’ training staff to reach the sideline.
Kansas City Chiefs injury Week 13
#23 Drue Tranquill went low to make the tackle on AJ Dillon and took a knee to the head pic.twitter.com/dUVUn95Dx5
— Video from: @TSV__1 (@TSV__1) December 4, 2023
Tranquill underwent initial medical evaluation in the on-site medical tent before proceeding to the locker room for further assessment. His absence mandated Jack Cochrane’s insertion as the MIKE linebacker for the team. The Chiefs announced Tranquill’s evaluation for a potential concussion.
Within the Chiefs’ defense, Tranquill, signed in the offseason, assumed a more significant role than initially anticipated due to injuries. With limited appearances by Nick Bolton, Tranquill emerged as a prominent figure in the linebacker position, accumulating over 500 defensive snaps, amounting to 74% of the available snaps this season. In the last four games, Tranquill’s presence was consistently significant, featuring in 99%, 95%, 98%, and 100% of the snaps.
LB Drue Tranquill is being evaluated for a concussion. pic.twitter.com/eKM1a0l7na
— Kansas City Chiefs (@Chiefs) December 4, 2023
Tranquill’s impact extended beyond just his presence on the field. He contributed actively to the team’s defense, showcasing versatility with notable statistics, including 70 tackles (six for loss), 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and a pass broken up. Moreover, his performance significantly led the team in Pro Football Focus “stops,” highlighting his crucial role in defensive plays.
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Tranquill stepped into the game in lieu of Nick Bolton, who is still on injured reserve following midseason wrist surgery. The linebacker unit includes Willie Gay Jr., Leo Chenal, Darius Harris, and Cam Jones. Additionally, starting left tackle Donovan Smith’s return is uncertain due to a neck injury, with rookie Wanya Morris taking his place at left tackle.
