Josh Simmons Returns to Chiefs Amidst Midseason Crossroads
For a team at a critical juncture, the Kansas City Chiefs received a much needed piece of good news. As the team heads into a pivotal bye week with a middling 5-4 record and currently outside the AFC playoff picture, a familiar face has returned to the facility: rookie left tackle Josh Simmons.
Simmons’ return marks the end of a mysterious four-game absence that began just before the Chiefs’ Week 6 matchup against the Detroit Lions. His presence could be the spark the team needs to regroup and salvage a season that has so far fallen short of expectations.
What Happened to Josh Simmons?
The timeline of Simmons‘ absence was a source of speculation for fans and media alike. After starting the first five games of the season and solidifying his role protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ blindside, Simmons was unexpectedly ruled out for the Week 6 game against the Lions. The team cited a “personal” designation on the injury report.
This single game absence stretched into four. He missed every practice and game that followed, with the team offering limited details. In mid-October, head coach Andy Reid confirmed the team was in “positive” communication with Simmons, stating the rookie was away to take care of a family matter. Ahead of the Week 8 game, owner Clark Hunt expressed hope that Simmons would be back with the team “at some time in the future.”
On Monday, reports confirmed that Simmons had finally returned to the team facility, ending the four-week period of uncertainty.
The Impact of Simmons’ Absence
During Simmons’ absence, veteran lineman Jaylon Moore stepped in at left tackle. The Chiefs managed a 3-1 record over that stretch, but the offensive line often lacked the consistency and power it displayed earlier in the season.
Simmons, the No. 32 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft, was more than just a placeholder; he was a key component of the Chiefs’ offensive strategy. In the first five games, he played 95 percent of the offensive snaps. His performance brought stability to a critical position, and his athleticism proved to be a weapon in both the running and screen games. Without him, the offense seemed to lose a dimension, placing more pressure on Mahomes to create plays under duress.
What His Return Means for the Chiefs
Simmons’ return comes at the perfect time. The Chiefs are using their bye week to get healthy, retool, and address the issues that have led to their inconsistent play. Having their starting left tackle back in the building is a significant morale boost and a practical advantage as they prepare for the second half of the season.
His return is expected to provide an immediate upgrade to the offensive line. Simmons not only offers superior pass protection but also adds a dynamic element to the running game. With him back in the lineup, the Chiefs’ offense can become more balanced and less reliant on “Mahomes magic” to win games. This allows the coaching staff to open up the playbook, finding a better rhythm between fundamental football and the creative plays the Chiefs are known for.
While it is still unclear if he will be ready to play in the Chiefs’ next game against the Denver Broncos in Week 11, the expectation is that he will rejoin the team on the field for practice. For a team desperately looking to get its season back on track, the return of their promising rookie is a significant step in the right direction. It’s a glimmer of hope that the Chiefs can still turn things around and make a push for the playoffs.
