According to a report by The Athletic’s Nate Taylor, Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson is set to return to his starting role in the defending Super Bowl champions’ AFC divisional round playoff game against the Houston Texans on Saturday.
Watson has been sidelined since Week 7 of the regular season due to an ankle injury and was initially not expected to return this season.
The former Washington State Cougar made significant progress during his injury recovery period and had his practice window opened during the Chiefs’ first-round playoff bye last week.
Head coach Andy Reid hinted at Watson’s possible return in a press conference earlier this week, but would not commit to activating the second-year defensive back.
New story. Jaylen Watson is expected to return to the Chiefs’ starting lineup for Saturday’s game against the Texans.
On the Chiefs defense at full strength for 1st time this season, just in time for the playoffs.https://t.co/UrEG9ti8Zb
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) January 16, 2025
Kansas City’s secondary has exceeded the high expectations placed on it without Watson’s help, but the veteran defensive back’s return will provide a major boost to the unit.
Look for Watson’s return to have an early impact in the Chiefs’ matchup against Houston on Saturday.