Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Hollywood Brown, who recently signed a one-year deal with the team during free agency, suffered a significant injury on the first offensive play of the preseason.
The injury occurred when Brown was driven into the ground after making an 11-yard catch from quarterback Patrick Mahomes during Saturday’s preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The game ended in a 26-13 victory for the Jaguars, but the Chiefs’ concerns are now focused on Brown’s health and recovery.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Brown sustained a sternoclavicular joint dislocation, an injury involving the joint where the collarbone meets the sternum. Brown was immediately taken to a local Jacksonville hospital for further evaluation, leaving his availability for the start of the regular season in doubt.
RELATED: Patrick Mahomes Jokes with Chiefs Teammates About Feeling His Age
Reid noted that this type of injury is similar to one that sidelined former Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill for a period in 2019. Given the severity of the dislocation, Brown could be facing an extended recovery time, which would impact his ability to contribute at the beginning of the season.
Hollywood Brown was expected to be a key player in Kansas City’s offense this year, particularly as a deep threat. Last season, while playing for the Arizona Cardinals, Brown caught 51 passes for 574 yards and scored four touchdowns in 14 games. The Chiefs had high hopes that Brown would fill an important role in their high-powered offense, especially following the departure of some key receivers.
With the regular season fast approaching, the Chiefs will be monitoring Brown’s recovery closely. His absence could create a significant gap in the team’s offensive strategy, as they had anticipated his speed and playmaking ability to be crucial components of their game plan.
The team may need to explore other options within their receiving corps or make adjustments to their offensive approach if Brown is unable to return in time for the season opener.
As of now, the timeline for Brown’s return remains uncertain, and Chiefs fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on his condition in the coming weeks.
