"After watching three days of practice this week, interim coach Romeo Crennel said Kyle Orton would start at quarterback on Sunday when the Chiefs play the Packers at Arrowhead Stadium.

The week began with the Chiefs unsure whether Orton, recovering from a dislocated index finger on his passing hand, would be able to play against Green Bay. But the Chiefs were pleasantly surprised with what they saw from Orton.

"It was very surprising," offensive coordinator Bill Muir said. "There are some issues but nothing of major concern. He had a good week of practice, all things considered. He did a good job in terms of being able to throw the ball and each day his velocity improved so I think he's ready to go."

Orton joined the Chiefs three weeks ago. He has taken one snap, in the Dec. 4 win over the Bears. Orton was hit on the play and was injured. He was not in uniform for last week's loss to the Jets.

Crennel's biggest concern heading into this week regarding Orton was not his ability to make all the necessary throws but to take the direct snap from center.

"The ball has not been on the ground when he's taken a snap," Crennel said. "There have been no fumbles."

Rookie Ricky Stanzi will be the No. 2 quarterback. It's unclear whether Tyler Palko, who started the last four games, will be available to play as the third quarterback or inactive."