JOSH Simmons returned to the Kansas City Chiefs last weekend after his four-game absence for personal reasons.

The rookie started for the four-time Super Bowl champions in their 22-19 defeat to the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

It was Simmons’ first appearance for the Chiefs since October 6, after being allowed to return to San Diego for what had been described as a family situation.

And the offensive tackle has spoken publicly for the first time since returning to the football field.

But Simmons, 22, remained adamant that he was not prepared to shed any more light on the reason for his mystery absence.

He said, “I know everybody wants to know, but it’s something I want to keep [private].

“Obviously, family is the biggest thing Polynesians lean on. When you get in that, it just makes everything a lot better.”

Simmons was ruled out of the Chiefs’ clash with the Detroit Lions last month – just hours before kick-off.

He then went on to miss the games against the Las Vegas Raiders, Washington Commanders and Buffalo Bills before heading back to the practice facility on November 3.

And Simmons is appreciative of the support he received from his teammates and fans of the Chiefs.

He added, “I want to thank the entire Kansas City and this club for having my [back] for the time I was away from the team.

“It showed how much love this team and city has for me. I can’t wait to give it back to them.”

Simmons, who was drafted out of Ohio State as the 32nd overall pick in April, revealed that he was able to view the Chiefs’ playbook and continued hitting the gym while in San Diego.

He admitted, “I was making sure I was working out, just keeping my feet alive and making sure my nervous system was woken up.

“I was ready to play. The communication with the team was very transparent, especially at the end.

“I had some teammates that were always checking in on me. When you have teammates like that, it definitely [helped]. I was itching to get back and fight for them.”