Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyquan Thornton is expected to return before the end of the season after he suffered a gruesome ankle injury in the fourth quarter of his team's 30-27 win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
After extensive tests on Monday, Thornton is expected back within 12 to 16 weeks from his dislocated left ankle, sources told Rapoport. He'll undergo surgery on the ankle this week and the Chiefs are hoping he can return by the end of the regular season or the playoffs.
The injury came after he made a key 55-yard catch. Thornton, a four-year veteran, was forced to exit Allegiant Stadium on crutches.
"It sucks that he hurt his ankle on that play, but it was a big play for us," quarterback Patrick Mahomes said of Thornton after Sunday's game. "It helped us go get the win. It's tough because those guys put in so much work. I was in that spot last year. One play can change your season. You hope for the best, but at the same time you want to show him support. I know how it is when you're in that position, and it's like the world is closing in on you. He's one of the best teammates I've ever had."
Thornton wasn't the only hit to the Chiefs' wide receiver room on Sunday. Fellow wideout Rashee Rice left the win in the first quarter because of a right hamstring injury. He recorded a short 7-yard reception but stumbled and pulled up while trying to gain yards after the catch, ending the play by going out of bounds. Rice tried to stay in the game, but he headed to the locker room before halftime after a lengthy chat with team trainer Rick Burkholder.
Reid didn't seem too concerned about Rice in his postgame news conference Sunday. The veteran was held out for the remainder of the game as a precaution.
Sunday was the best game in Thornton's career. He led the Chiefs with five receptions for a career-high 111 receiving yards and two touchdowns as they improved to 4-0.
Through the first four weeks, Rice and Thornton have been Kansas City's best receivers, combining to make 24 catches on 31 targets for 409 yards and three touchdowns.