An NFL insider confirmed the move, noting that McDonald is expected to return within the season. The second-year linebacker, who joined the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2025, had become a valued locker-room presence. Head coach Andy Reid confirmed the IR designation and indicated that McDonald will have a four-week window to progress before a decision on his status is made.
McDonald left the game after a kickoff coverage sequence that followed a rushing touchdown by Patrick Mahomes. He exited the field with the help of the Chiefs’ medical staff, initially listed as questionable, before the update ended the game.
McDonald joined the Chiefs after participating in a rookie minicamp as a tryout in May 2025, a camp that included about 60 participants. He quickly earned a contract and a roster spot, signing a three-year deal worth $2.85 million with a cap hit of $575,353. In college, the 6-foot-2, 235-pound linebacker produced 25 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup for TCU in the previous season.
Since joining Kansas City, McDonald contributed mainly on special teams, appearing in all 17 games and starting once. He totaled 25 tackles, 289 special-teams snaps, and 57 defensive snaps. Earlier in the offseason, he spoke about embracing the opportunity of his rookie season and playing with a high level of physicality.
Reid has highlighted McDonald’s role as a valuable player, praising the scouting that brought him to the roster. McDonald’s absence will be felt, but the team is already preparing replacements and continuing to manage a broader injury picture.
In addition to McDonald, the Chiefs are navigating other health concerns. Rookie Delane sustained a shoulder issue early in the opener but was able to pass tests and should be available for Week 2. The Chiefs added fullback Ben VanSumeren from the practice squad; the former linebacker could contribute on special teams.
Offensive tackle Josh Simmons remains sidelined with a back injury, and safety Chamarri Conner has not practiced yet, though head coach Reid indicated both players are making progress.
Linebacker Nick Bolton spoke about the team’s depth, praising versatile defender Jack Cochrane, who has experience at multiple linebacker positions and is prepared to step in for McDonald. Bolton emphasized the need for the next man up and expressed confidence in Cochrane’s ability to execute the defense’s scheme.
With McDonald out, the Chiefs will need to rely on internal depth as they prepare for Week 2, a Sunday Night Football matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. The team’s defensive plan remains focused on maintaining versatility and keeping their unit cohesive while McDonald rehabs.
Upcoming Week 2 clash: Chiefs vs. Colts on Sunday Night Football.
