The Kansas City Chiefs are optimistic that they’ll have one of their best defensive players available against the Houston Texans for Sunday’s divisional-round game.

A new report from NFL Network’s James Palmer has revealed that star DT Chris Jones first injured his calf during one of the final plays of practice on Thursday. Jones was added to the injury report, listed as a limited participant on Thursday and did not participate in practice the following day. That, of course, was enough to put Jones’ gameday status in question.

According to Palmer, the Chiefs will watch Jones during pregame workouts, but there is a sense of optimism regarding his availability.

#chiefs star DL Chris Jones injured his calf in one of the final plays of practice on Thursday and was held out of practice Friday. I’m told they’ll watch him work pregame, but are optimistic he’s going to be able to go today. Jones missed Week 6 vs the Texans who rushed for 192 — James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) January 12, 2020

Jones missed the first matchup between Chiefs and Texans in Week 6 with a groin injury. The presence of Jones is much more significant when it comes to getting interior pass rush and penetration into the backfield rather than stopping the run.

If Jones is unable to suit up and play during the divisional round of the playoffs, Kansas City has three options who will likely rotate in and replace Jones throughout the game. Even if Jones is available, he likely won’t receive the same amount of snaps as if he were fully healthy. With a deep rotation of players available they should do their best to keep Jones fresh for key downs and distances.