The Kansas City Chiefs have won back-to-back games and have a winning record, but the absence of tackle Josh Simmons has become a story despite backup Jaylon Moore stepping in
Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt and head coach Andy Reid were unable to discuss rookie Josh Simmons’ absence.
On Sunday, the Chiefs secured a stunning 31-0 win over the Las Vegas Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium. Patrick Mahomes was electric, completing 26 of 35 passes for 286 yards and three touchdowns while also pulling off a clever trick move by ‘arguing’ with his coach.
However, the mystery regarding the absence of Simmons continued. Back in April, the Chiefs addressed the offensive line in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft when the franchise selected the Ohio State tackle.
The Chiefs felt they needed to upgrade Patrick Mahomes’ protection after the Philadelphia Eagles consistently disrupted his rhythm in the Super Bowl blowout loss. He joined as the second early offensive line pick in as many years; the AFC West franchise took BYU’s Kingsley Suamataia with the 63rd overall pick a year ago.
Several hours before kickoff in Kansas City’s 30-17 win over the Detroit Lions in Week 6, Simmons was surprisingly listed as “questionable” before being downgraded to out with a “personal designation.” The rookie — who drew immense praise from former Eagles center Jason Kelce — was subsequently absent from Chiefs practice all three days during the week.
Simmons also missed the win over the Raiders, with Reid suggesting he “was gone for personal reasons. While attending the NFL owners’ meeting in New York on Tuesday, Hunt was asked if he could give fans some insight into the situation regarding Simmons.
“I really can’t comment,” Hunt replied. Meanwhile, Reid said: “As far as Josh goes, I don’t have any updates for you. (Brett) Veach is handling everything there and so just move on with that. Alright?”
Mahomes commented on the ongoing confusion over Simmons’ status. He revealed last week that he was caught off guard by the absence of his tackle.
“I didn’t fully know, obviously, we had a walk-through around noon or 1 pm, and he wasn’t there, so I knew something was up,” Mahomes said. When asked if he had spoken with the 22-year-old, Mahomes added: “I’ll keep conversations between us, but I’m always praying for all my teammates. I’ll keep everything else private to us.”
Simmons’ unexplained absence hasn’t stung like it might. Back in free agency, Jaylon Moore signed a two-year, $30 million contract and has stood in for Simmons.
The Chiefs have a long week to prepare and gear up for Monday Night Football, where the Washington Commanders travel to Arrowhead. Mahomes was pleased to see Rashee Rice return effectively, with the receiver turning seven receptions into 42 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
The 4-3 Chiefs host the 3-4 Commanders on Monday, Oct. 23
