ST. JOSEPH, Mo. _ Jamaal Charles will open training camp on the physically-unable-to-perform list, Chiefs coach Andy Reid announced Wednesday.
Charles, who is recovering from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, participated in individual drills and warmups during the end of organized team activities in late June.
Reid was asked if he considers this a setback.
"I don't think so," Reid said. "He's played a lot of downs, and he knows what he needs to do to be ready. I think we'll be fine there. I think the important thing is that we're patient with him ... and keep him healthy."
Reid said he is not sure when Charles will be ready to practice, but he doesn't think it will be by Saturday _ the team's first full-squad practice.
"We've just got to take our time with this," Reid said. "Just make sure that he's good."
Teams utilize the PUP list early in camp as a precaution, because it gives them more roster options for injured players.
Players are only eligible for the PUP list if they are unable to participate in training camp practices, and once Charles is cleared by the medical staff, he will be moved off the list and onto the active roster. A player cannot be placed back on the PUP list, however, after he has participated in even one training camp practice.
If Charles were to remain on the list at the end of the preseason, he would then be eligible for the reserve PUP list. That would not only clear a spot on the 53-man roster, but also open the door for a return after six weeks. That's a better option than the alternative, which is injured reserve.
