KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Tamba Hali was a part-time player in his season debut, playing 23 of a possible 67 snaps two weeks ago against the Dallas Cowboys.

Defensive coordinator Bob Sutton said Hali’s snaps would similarly be limited if he plays at all in Sunday’s game against the New York Giants and beyond.

“I think in that same range,’’ Sutton said when asked what a reasonable expectation for Hali’s playing time moving forward would be. “I don’t think he’s ready or we’re ready to say he’s ready for a 50-play game or that type of thing.

“Maybe it increases as time goes on, but if nothing else if we can get that ... 20-some plays a game that would be a great help to us.’’

Hali’s availability seems in doubt for Sunday’s game because he didn’t practice on Thursday for the second straight day because of some swelling in his chronically aching knees. Hali hadn’t played or practiced all year until the week of the Cowboys game, and the fact he isn’t practicing after limited activity and last week’s bye is not a good sign for his availability for the remainder of the season.

But Hali has been dealing with soreness in his knees for some time. Last year, he wasn’t available for practice much but played in all 16 games.

The Chiefs have a need for Hali, who is tied for 44th on the NFL’s all-time sack list with 89.5. Starting outside linebacker Dee Ford didn’t play against the Cowboys and also hasn’t practiced this week because of a back injury.

Hali was in on one tackle against the Cowboys. Dallas tackle Tyron Smith was penalized for holding on one play while trying to block Hali.

“He’s had like no plays,’’ Sutton said. “No plays in practice until last week. I think for a guy to go out there like he did ... I thought he did a pretty decent job.

“Tamba is always going to bring you energy. That’s a staple of his. He got the one hold [penalty]. One of the most important qualities of a pass-rusher is to be relentless because you’re going to get blocked most of the time and you’ve just got to keep fighting within the play and within the series.

“It was great to have him back.’’