Report: 2 Cardinals coaches in COVID-19 protocols for Chiefs game

Arizona Cardinals tight ends coach Steve Heiden and an unnamed defensive assistant coach will miss Friday’s preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs because of COVID-19 protocols, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

Heiden is currently in his ninth year with the Cardinals and third as tight ends coach. He previously worked as an offensive line coach as well as an assistant special teams/assistant tight ends coach after being hired in 2013.

The Cardinals currently have three players under COVID-19 protocols, two of whom in Justin Pugh and Jordan Phillips who have confirmed they tested positive for the virus despite being vaccinated. Andy Isabella is also under COVID-19 protocols.

The Cardinals kick off preseason game number two Friday night at State Farm Stadium at 5 p.m.

Kansas City is expected to play the majority of its starters for up to the whole first half of the game.

The minutes for the Cardinals’ starters are still unknown. Starting quarterback Kyler Murray did not dress in the team’s first preseason game.

Cardinals star wide receiver Deandre Hopkins is doubtful to play in game number two.

“I don’t think he’ll go this week,” head coach Kliff Kingsbury said. “But he’ll be full-go for next week’s practice.”

Arizona’s final preseason game will be in New Orleans against the Saints on Saturday, Aug. 28.