KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Chiefs defensive tackle Mike Pennel is eager to return to the field with his teammates.
After serving his two-game suspension during week one and two, Pennel told media on Saturday that he's ready to help the Chiefs' defense make a difference come Monday Night, when the Super Bowl champs face the Baltimore Ravens.
#Chiefs DT Mike Pennel says he missed the guys in the locker room the most during his two game suspension.
— Hayley Lewis 👑 (@HayleyLewisKSHB) September 26, 2020
As for if he feels physically ready to play Monday...
"I promise you... I've been working hard" #ChiefsKingdom
Head Coach Andy Reid has confidence that, even after sitting two games out, Pennel will be ready to contribute. The defensive lineman played in eight of the Chiefs' final 10 regular season games last year. Reid believes that experience will transition over smoothly even after being sidelined for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.
#Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid said DT Mike Pennel
— Hayley Lewis 👑 (@HayleyLewisKSHB) September 26, 2020
"will be ready to go" on Monday, when referring to shaking off any rust after sitting out due to his suspension for the first two games.
Although he missed the opportunity to compete, Pennel said he missed his teammates the most. The defensive tackle was added to the roster late in October of 2019, but played a big role for defense.
Reid also confirmed defensive end Alex Okafor did not practice Saturday, as he continues to nurse a hamstring strain. Additionally, defensive tackle Khalen Saunders remains on the IR with a dislocated elbow. With these injuries on defense, Pennel's return will be much welcomed among Chiefs Kingdom.
