Three years ago, Eric Berry authored one of the most remarkable comeback stories in sports.
After missing nearly all of the 2014 season while fighting a winning battle against Hodgkin's lymphoma, the Kansas City Chiefs star safety made an emphatic return, earning All-Pro and Comeback Player of the Year honors. On Oct. 25, 2015, Berry picked off a Ben Roethlisberger pass in Kansas City's 23-13 win at Arrowhead, the Chiefs' last win over the Steelers.
However, a torn Achilles’ heel suffered in Week 1 of last season is proving to be a little more problematic for the 29-year-old.
Berry did not practice again on Friday and is officially listed as doubtful to make his 2018 debut when the Chiefs travel to Heinz Field for Week 2.
Though Berry did go through training camp, he began experiencing foot pain mid-August and has been since shut down. The Chiefs were hoping to get him back this week, but his foot hasn't responded as hoped and they are in no rush to bring him back too soon.
The 2010 fifth-overall pick's career has been marked by spectacular play and adversity. The five-time Pro Bowl and three-time All-Pro also missed the 2011 season due to a torn ACL.
His absence is a big loss for a Kansas City defense which has had a lot of turnover and is expected to struggle this season. The Chiefs secondary allowed 418 passing yards in last week's 38-28 win over the Chargers in Los Angeles.
Along with Berry, rookie linebacker Ben Niemann won't play Sunday against the Steelers with a hamstring injury.
Cornerback Kendall Fuller (thumb), defensive tackle Justin Hamilton (ankle), linebacker Reggie Ragland (knee), running back Darrel Williams (shoulder) and offensive lineman Kahill McKenzie (illness) were all listed as full participants on Friday's practice report.