The Kansas City Chiefs have been handed a boost by the news that pass rusher Justin Houston will not need surgery on an injured elbow.

After dislocating his elbow during Sunday's loss to the San Diego Chargers, it was feared that Houston would be out for the remainder of the regular season, if not longer.

However, although tests revealed some sprained ligaments and torn muscles in his arm, the Chiefs believe that the timeframe for his absence is shorter than they had first expected.

Media insider of NFL.com Ian Rapoport said on Wednesday via Twitter: "#Chiefs LB Justin Houston won't need surgery on his dislocated elbow, per source. Sprained ligaments, torn muscles though. May be out 2-3 weeks."

The Chiefs will hope to have Houston back for their final two matches before the playoffs, with the post-season a distinct possibility for them as they sit second in the AFC West with a 9-2 record.