Reid: Hali's ankle sprain is 'slight'

Kansas City Chiefs outside linebackers Justin Houston and Tamba Hali left Sunday's game with injuries, but head coach Andy Reid signaled at least one could be ready to go this week in a pivotal division rematch with the Denver Broncos.

The Chiefs (9-2) lost Houston and Hali, the pass-rushing tandem which combined for 20 of Kansas City's 36 sacks in the first 10 games of the season, in the second quarter of Sunday's loss to the San Diego Chargers.

Reid said Monday that Houston was unable to have an MRI exam as scheduled, but Hali came to the team facility with only one crutch -- which Reid said jokingly could mean he's "halfway there."

"Justin Houston subluxed his elbow," Reid said. "We weren't able to do the MRI he's got quite a bit of swelling in there and they weren't able to get him in the position to do the MRI."

A subluxation is considered a partial dislocation. The MRI is necessary to detect whether ligaments and bone damage took place. Houston was in a split Sunday. The recovery depends on the degree of the injury, but is typically 2-3 weeks for full range of motion to return.

There was better news for the Chiefs on Hali, who left Arrowhead Stadium on crutches and needed assistance in and out of the shower following Sunday's loss. His injury was described Sunday as a possible high-ankle sprain, but Reid said that wasn't the case.

"He made big improvements from yesterday but we just have to see how he does," Reid said.

Reid said Hali's MRI was "a positive."

"Today he was able to walk in the pool," Reid said.