Report: KC Chiefs’ Bryan Cook Avoided Worst-Case Scenario With Ankle Injury
On Sunday night, the Kansas City Chiefs were defeated by the Green Bay Packers; however, the most devastating moment for the team occurred during the third quarter.
After Jordan Love hit AJ Dillon on a first-and-10 play, safety Bryan Cook hurt his ankle and had to be helped off the field. Because the play was so scary, the in-game broadcast did not even play a replay, which made many people fearful for Cook’s health. Head coach Andy Reid said that Kansas City was still obtaining information regarding the injury after the game. There’s a little more clarity on the situation on Monday morning.
As per Jeremy Fowler’s report on ESPN, Cook’s ankle X-ray results were negative. This is encouraging early news for the second-year safety and the Chiefs alike as it shows he did not break his ankle.
Cook matched his season-high total from Week 1 with seven tackles before exiting the Week 13 game. In 12 games, the 2022 second-round pick was having a good sophomore campaign with 42 tackles, two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and a touchdown return. When the Chiefs allowed former starter Juan Thornhill to leave via free agency in the spring, Cook was given the opportunity to take over. He succeeded in doing just that in the offseason, settling in to form a solid defensive backfield tandem with Justin Reid.
Veteran Mike Edwards filled in for Cook on Sunday, totaling 52 snaps. That was good for 81% of those that were available, by far the largest percentage he’s had so far this season. Although he’s been productive for Kansas City this season, Edwards is a true playmaker who is better suited as a third safety than a No. 2 option. Everyone in the Chiefs organization is hoping that Cook heals quickly as they continue to learn more about the nature of his injury and the amount of time he will miss. Chris Jones, a defensive tackle, discussed it on Sunday evening.
“Bryan’s been playing so well for us,” Jones said. “He’s been a dominant force on the back end. For him to go down, I’m keeping him in my prayers. Hopefully, he can make a quick recovery. I don’t know the situation of it; I just saw that he was in excruciating pain. I said a quick prayer for him. I’ve still got him in my prayers and hopefully, he can make a quick recovery to get back on the field with us.”
