30 January 2024 , 10:20
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The Kansas City Chiefs have been dealt a major blow ahead of Super Bowl LVIII, with key player Charles Omenihu ruled out due to injury. The defensive star will miss the big game against the San Francisco 49ers on Feb. 11 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
Omenihu, a crucial part of the Chiefs' defence, suffered a torn ACL during their 17-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game. The injury happened in the second quarter when he was forced off the pitch after a move by Lamar Jackson caused his knee to buckle.
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Despite only playing six snaps before his exit, Omenihu remained hopeful about playing in Super Bowl LVIII. After the game, he confidently said: "This is the reason I came here for, bro," and "I'm gonna be good. No, I'm not done. I'm playing, I'm straight. We're here. Yes, yes. Do I look like somebody that's not gonna play in the Super Bowl? No, I don't. I'm there, like come on bro."
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After the announcement of Omenihu's injury, the 26 year old expressed his disappointment with a broken heart emoji on social media. His absence will be felt by Kansas City as he was a key part of the Chiefs' defence during the 2023 NFL season.
Charles Omenihu played a crucial part in the Chiefs' win over the Baltimore Ravens (Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)In 11 games, Omenihu achieved 7.0 sacks and two forced fumbles. He missed the first six games due to violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. This is his first year with the Chiefs after signing a two-year deal, following two seasons with the 49ers.
During his time with San Francisco, Omenihu had 4.5 sacks in 26 games. Before that, he generated 7.0 sacks in three seasons with the Houston Texans, who originally drafted him.
With Omenihu out for the Big Game, teammates George Karlaftis, Chris Jones and Michael Danna will need to step up against 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Similarly, Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the rest of the Chiefs offence will have to compensate.
No matter how head coach Andy Reid plans for Super Bowl LVIII, the Chiefs will have to manage without a crucial member of their defensive team in the most important game of the year.
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