Chiefs vs. Panthers injury report: 4 starters sit out Wednesday's practice

The Kansas City Chiefs were missing five players in Wednesday's practice, including starting tackle Branden Albert, linebacker Tamba Hali, defensive back Kendrick Lewis and guard Ryan Lilja.

Albert missed last Sunday's game, in which the Chiefs fell to the Denver Broncos, 17-9, with a back injury. Lilja, on the other hand, did play against Denver after missing the previous week's game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He is back on the injury report with a knee issue.

Hali and Lewis suffered minor injuries against the Broncos. Hali's knee was banged up while Lewis hurt his shoulder, though not the same one that was surgically repaired prior to the start of the season.

Backup wide receiver and kick returner Dexter McCluster suffered head and neck injuries against the Broncos, forcing him to leave the game. However, despite missing practice, he has been cleared to play.

The Chiefs travel east to take on the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Kickoff is set for noon CT.