The Uncertain Status of Kansas City Chiefs’ Left Tackle Josh Simmons

Kansas City Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons remains conspicuously absent from the team, despite holding a crucial role in football. His task is to protect the blindside of quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a key player in the NFL and an invaluable asset. However, Simmons has appeared in only eight out of 20 games since being drafted two seasons ago.

Khali Benson, an undrafted rookie right tackle, has been replacing Simmons this season. Despite the team’s 3-0 record, Benson exhibited limitations in a recent game against the Dolphins, with defenders breaking through his defenses quickly. Simmons provided stability to the offense, yet his return remains uncertain.

The mystery is why, in a league with constant updates on player injuries, Simmons’ situation remains unclear.

To comprehend the situation, it’s essential to revisit Simmons’ pre-draft experiences. In October 2024, Simmons suffered a season-ending patellar tendon injury at Ohio State, though reports later suggested a swift recovery. The Chiefs drafted him 32nd overall. Despite an active rookie minicamp participation, questions arose concerning his character rather than the injury.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noted that despite Simmons possessing the best tape among offensive tackles, teams hesitated due to character concerns. The specifics of these concerns remain unknown, but they were significant enough for teams to pass on Simmons.

Initially, Simmons seemed to resolve Kansas City’s longstanding left tackle issues. But, on October 6, 2025, Simmons was listed as questionable with an illness before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He performed well but subsequently missed pre-game responsibilities for the next game without notifying the team. Head coach Andy Reid suggested awareness of Simmons’ location without providing further details.

During Simmons’ four-game absence, labeled a personal or family issue, the team and reporters offered little clarification. Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame later reported Simmons left the team unapproved the day before facing the Lions. The Chiefs have not confirmed those reports, and inquiries to Simmons’ agent and the team’s general manager went unanswered.

Now, as of September 28, Simmons hasn’t practiced since August 18 and missed the season’s first three games. Reid vaguely updated on Simmons’ return without details, while other players had more precise updates on their injuries. Unlike other Chiefs players whose injuries were covered extensively, Simmons’ situation remains shrouded in mystery.

The lack of national reporting on Simmons diverges from typical coverage, leading to speculation about possible connections to past personal issues. Yahoo NFL analyst Hayden Winks articulated the complexity of Simmons’ absence compared to being on injured reserve.

Price Carter, a top analyst, emphasized the irregularity of Simmons’ injury progression. Initially minor, with potential to play through, Simmons’ absence extended for two months without roster adjustments or clear communication. Andy Reid, known for his reserved communication, contributes to the speculations.

The Chiefs, by maintaining silence, open their player to public speculation. This includes possible ties between pre-draft character concerns and his current situation. There are instances where teams have masked personal matters as injuries.

Despite the ambiguity, the Chiefs kept Simmons on the active roster instead of utilizing injured reserve or non-football injury list options, leading to speculation about possible additional factors affecting his absence.

The Chiefs’ ongoing silence prompts questions about whether Simmons remains committed to playing. Fans and the team deserve clarity on Simmons’ future or a roster decision offering closure.

Apparently, the Chiefs have determined speculation about Simmons is less damaging than revealing the truth.