The Kansas City Chiefs defense has lost a big piece on the front end.

Defensive end Taco Charlton, one of their premier pass rushers, has fractured his lower leg, which has forced him onto the injured reserve, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid did not give any indication on any timetable for Charlton's return to the field, but a leg fracture, especially this late into the season, will almost assuredly put him out of action for the remainder of the 2020 season.

This may play an impact on the Chiefs, who are looking to repeat as Super Bowl champions after winning their second Vince Lombardi Trophy in franchise history last season.

Charlton registered seven tackles, including two sacks, along with one forced fumble and four quarterback hits this season prior to the injury. While not the starter, Charlton's absence will reduce the Chiefs' depth on the front line on defense. This injury will put more pressure on Frank Clark up front.

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The Chiefs continued their hot season on Sunday with another win but struggled against the Carolina Panthers, who kept the game close throughout. The Chiefs only won by two, 33-31, which was a lot closer than more expected for this game with the Panther under .500. The Panthers were helped by the returning Christian McCaffrey, who rushed for 69 yards and a touchdown. Patrick Mahomes had another great game with 372 passing yards and four passing touchdowns.

The Chiefs will next travel to Las Vegas, where they will be facing the Raiders, who gave their AFC West foe their only loss of the season in Week 5 with a 40-32 upset.