The Kansas City Chiefs received encouraging news Friday morning as rookie wide receiver Cyrus Allen returned to practice after missing nearly a week with a shin injury.
Allen, a fifth-round draft pick, had quickly become one of the biggest standouts of Chiefs training camp before suffering a shin bruise during Saturday’s practice at Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph.
According to ChiefsDigest.com’s Matt Derrick, Allen was back on the practice field in full pads Friday, giving the rookie another opportunity to continue building momentum heading into the preseason.
Cyrus Allen Returns After Frightening Training Camp Injury
Allen’s injury came midway through Saturday’s practice during a punt drill when he collided with cornerback Kaiir Elam.
The rookie remained on the ground after the play before trainers helped him off the field. He was later driven away from practice on a cart, creating concern after what had been an impressive first week of camp.
Within hours, however, the Chiefs announced Allen had suffered only a shin bruise.
Head coach Andy Reid later said the injury was not expected to keep the rookie sidelined for long.
“He’ll need a day or two,” Reid told reporters earlier this week.
Friday’s return fell right in line with that timeline.
Before the injury, Allen had drawn praise for several highlight-reel catches from Patrick Mahomes, including multiple acrobatic receptions during practice. The rookie also earned opportunities with the first-team offense as he continued making a strong impression on the coaching staff.
Allen’s strong start to camp has not gone unnoticed outside the Chiefs organization.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer recently reported that Allen is “very much part of the offensive plan” entering the season.
Breer added that Allen “might’ve been the best receiver in camp before bruising his shin” and reported that the Chiefs see similarities between the rookie and four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs because of Allen’s “physical profile and play style.”
Chiefs Get Encouraging Cyrus Allen Injury Update After Training Camp Scare