Mathieu to play in AFC title game after clearing concussion protocol

Kansas City Chiefs safety Tyrann Mathieu will play in Sunday's AFC Championship Game against the Cincinnati Bengals after clearing concussion protocol, the team announced Sunday.

Mathieu suffered a concussion in the first quarter of Kansas City's divisional-round victory over the Buffalo Bills. He was deemed questionable for Sunday's contest after being a full participant in practice on Thursday and Friday.

The 29-year-old earned his second straight Pro-Bowl selection after grabbing three interceptions in 2021. He also added 76 tackles, one sack, and three fumble recoveries.

Mathieu's placement in the starting lineup will likely reduce Daniel Sorensen back to his usual backup safety role. Sorensen played 59 snaps - his most since Week 4 - in the divisional-round win against the Bills due to Mathieu's exit.

The Chiefs can clinch their third straight Super Bowl appearance with a win Sunday.

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