They didn’t think it would be this soon.

With backup quarterback Damon Huard questionable with a groin injury for Sunday’s home game against Seattle, Croyle, a rookie from Alabama, took all the significant snaps in practice Friday and will start Sunday if Huard cannot go.

“This is what you come here for,” Croyle said of the prospect of starting his first NFL game. “Right now I’m thinking it will be Damon, but I’ve got to prepare as if it’s going to be my opportunity.”

Huard tweaked his groin late in practice Thursday as he stepped up into the pocket. He took an MRI, which revealed nothing torn. Huard said he does not consider his injury serious, but lamented the timing.

“I don’t think this is the end of the world,” he said. “I don’t think it’s that big a deal. By Sunday I hope I’ll be ready to play.”

If not, the game will have devolved into a wholly unexpected Seneca Wallace-Croyle duel matching a pair of guys making their first NFL starts.

“He doesn’t have to do it all by himself,” Chiefs coach Herm Edwards said. “All he’s got to do is turn on the engine and steer the car, but he’ll have guys helping hm. He’ll be fine.