Chiefs Hold Key Players Out of Preseason Opener – Kristian Fulton Still Sidelined

KANSAS CITY, MO — August 7, 2025 

 With just one day until the Kansas City Chiefs face the Arizona Cardinals in their preseason opener, the team’s injury report is raising concerns among fans. According to Arrowhead Pride, veteran cornerback Kristian Fulton, a key offseason addition, remains on the Active/PUP list due to a knee injury and has yet to participate in training camp practices. No official timeline for his return has been provided, leaving his status uncertain as the regular season approaches.

The Chiefs are also managing absences of other critical players. Wide receivers Rashee Rice (groin) and Hollywood Brown (ankle) have missed multiple practices, with Rice sidelined since August 6 and Brown out since July 30. Additionally, rookie linebacker Cam Jones was held out of practice on August 6, though the reason remains undisclosed. These absences highlight the team’s cautious approach as they prepare for a demanding 2025 campaign.

Head Coach Andy Reid confirmed that the Chiefs’ starters, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, will play only a brief portion of the first quarter in the opener against the Cardinals. This strategy aims to minimize injury risks while providing opportunities for backups and rookies to showcase their skills. Reid’s plan reflects the team’s focus on long-term health over immediate preseason performance, especially after last season’s injury challenges.

The absence of Fulton, a projected starter in the secondary, places added pressure on younger cornerbacks to step up. Signed to a two-year, $20 million contract in March, Fulton was expected to bolster the Chiefs’ defense alongside Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. His prolonged recovery from offseason knee surgery, however, raises questions about the team’s defensive depth, particularly at cornerback, where injuries have already strained the roster.

With less than a month until the regular season kicks off, Fulton’s delayed return is a storyline to watch. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if he can regain full health in time to anchor the secondary. For now, the Chiefs are prioritizing caution in their preseason opener, ensuring their stars are ready for the grind of a championship chase.