Kansas City, Mo. – The Kansas City Chiefs confirmed that 23‑year‑old offensive lineman Josh Simmons has been placed on injured reserve. Simmons, the team’s 2025 first‑round selection out of Ohio State, has not appeared in a game this season after dealing with a bulging disc in his back.
Team meeting leads to medical referral
According to reports from ESPN and the NFL Network, Simmons met with quarterback Patrick Mahomes and head coach Andy Reid earlier this week. During the meeting, Simmons kept his feet on the conference‑room desk, explaining that the position helped alleviate pressure on his back. Coach Reid instructed him to lower his feet and advised that he seek treatment from the team’s athletic trainers. Mahomes echoed Reid’s recommendation, emphasizing the importance of proper medical care.
Following the discussion, the Chiefs placed Simmons on injured reserve on Thursday. Under league rules, he will be eligible to return to the active roster after Week 11, should his recovery progress as expected.
Injury history and draft expectations
Simmons entered the NFL with high expectations after the Chiefs used a first‑round pick on him in the 2025 draft, viewing him as a key protector for Mahomes’ pocket. He appeared in eight games during his rookie season but has missed every snap in 2026 due to the back issue and a prior patellar tendon injury that raised concerns before the draft.
While his on‑field contributions have been limited, the Chiefs remain confident in his long‑term potential. The team’s depth chart now lists Kahlil Benson as the primary left tackle, a player who has started all five games for Kansas City this season.
What this means for the Chiefs’ offensive line
The loss of Simmons creates a short‑term challenge for the Chiefs’ offensive line, which has already dealt with injuries at multiple positions. Coach Reid and the offensive staff will rely on Benson and other backups to maintain protection for Mahomes as the team pushes toward the playoffs.
Chiefs’ officials declined to comment further on Simmons’ prognosis, noting that the medical staff is closely monitoring his recovery and will provide updates as appropriate.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
