Chiefs’ Hollywood Brown Could Finally Make 2024 Debut After Lengthy IR Stint

The Kansas City Chiefs are reportedly activating wide receiver Hollywood Brown from injured reserve this week. After missing three months with a shoulder injury, the flashy route runner could be available to make his long-awaited debut with the team in Week 16 against the Houston Texans on Saturday.

After moderately successful stints with the Ravens and Cardinals, Brown signed with Kansas City earlier this year and figured to be a dynamic option in the team’s offense. That plan evaporated when Brown suffered a shoulder joint injury in August, the first of many setbacks for a Chiefs offense that went on to lose stars like wide receiver Rashee Rice and running back Isiah Pacheco.

Despite startlingly inefficient play in a short-staffed offense, the Chiefs have still managed to secure a 13-1 record through elite coaching and defense. Pacheco is in the backfield again, and getting Brown up to speed for the playoffs could give the team better chances to score in games that count. His first few practices have reportedly been a positive sign that he is ready to return to game action.

Kansas City received more good injury news this week alongside Brown’s, as quarterback Patrick Mahomes is expected to be available to play in Week 16 despite a high ankle sprain he sustained against the Browns last weekend. He was a full participant in practice on Wednesday, and as long as he doesn’t aggravate the injury, he seems poised to lead the team in another deep postseason run.

On paper, Brown should slot into Kansas City’s existing scheme perfectly, acting as a complement for star veteran DeAndre Hopkins and young speedster Xavier Worthy. Tight end Travis Kelce is being managed in preparation for the playoffs but remains the Chiefs’ most targeted player. It’s unlikely that Brown will light up the score sheets in his first few games, but this offense isn’t as crowded as it seems. In time, he could become a valuable option down the sidelines.