Josh Simmons was a very late addition to the Kansas City Chiefs’ injury report for their 30-17 Sunday Night Football win over the Detroit Lions. The standout rookie left tackle was eventually ruled out due to non-injury-related personal reasons.
Little information has been provided on what Simmons is going through beyond the Chiefs reportedly describing the matter as a “family situation.” Nevertheless, as we continue to get left in the dark on what’s happening, it’s becoming clearer that this may be more than a one-off absence.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid began his media availability during Wednesday’s Week 7 practice by stating he won’t speak on Simmons’ circumstances. The concerning non-update unofficially puts the 2025 No. 32 overall pick on the wrong side of questionable to face the Las Vegas Raiders.
Chiefs HC Andy Reid keeping coy on OT Josh Simmons sounds alarms in Kansas City
“As far as the Josh Simmons situation goes, I’m not going to comment on it today,” Reid told reporters. “[Chiefs general manager Brett] Veach is handling everything there. We’ll leave it at that.”
They say no news is good news, though that mantra may not apply to Chiefs Kingdom in this scenario. Of course, fans wish Simmons and his loved ones nothing but the best amid the uncertainty surrounding his status. However, folks in Kansas City understandably want to see him back on the field as soon as possible.
Barring any sudden turn of events, the Kansas City faithful should brace for Simmons to miss the team’s upcoming clash with the Raiders. Reid’s short but not sweet remarks ominously indicate that veteran offseason free-agent acquisition Jaylon Moore will be tasked with protecting superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ blindside.
Moore fared well as a run blocker for Kansas City against the Lions, but he struggled to keep Mahomes clean. The ex-San Francisco 49ers offensive lineman allowed three pressures, two hurries and a sack, which ostensibly got swept under the rug because the Chiefs won.
Conversely, Simmons is Pro Football Focus’ 24th-highest-graded tackle in pass protection out of 114 qualified options. He’s been an instant difference-maker for Mahomes and the Chiefs’ aerial attack. The Ohio State product’s availability bears watching for a surging Kansas City squad beginning to find its footing, but Reid paints an ominous picture.
