Justin Houston has been in and out (mostly out) of the Chiefs' lineup this season due to injuries, but coach Andy Reid expects the pass-rusher to return for this week's divisional playoff game against the Steelers.
"Everybody that was banged up is good to go now."
— BJ Kissel (@ChiefsReporter) January 9, 2017
~ Andy Reid mentioning Spencer Ware and Justin Houston, specifically.
The four-time Pro Bowl linebacker will be a huge addition to Kansas City's defense. Just two years ago, Houston had 22 sacks, which is just half a sack from the single-season record. His presence will be needed as the Chiefs look to slow down the Steelers' potent offense.
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Although Reid didn't mention a snap count, there's a chance Houston will come in only on passing downs. He missed the first 10 weeks of the season and returned to play in five games, but then he missed the last two weeks.
Houston had a huge impact in the team's first win against the Broncos, as he recorded three sacks (one for a safety), had a pass deflection, forced a fumble and made 10 total tackles. That performance is a perfect display of the kind of disruption Houston can cause.
Last February, Houston had surgery to repair a torn ACL. Even though he made his season debut Nov. 20, his knee began bothering him after a few games, and the team took precautions to keep him healthy for the playoffs.
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