The Kansas City Chiefs have been dealt their first major injury blow with Deon Bush tearing his Achilles tendon and gone for the season. The Super Bowl champion was an important special teams piece and consistently played defensive snaps as well. It isn't an easy fix with the Chiefs already having questionable secondary depth.
This stems back to the front office's decision not to pay Justin Reid in the 2025 offseason. Losing Bush makes it clear the Chiefs should explore making a move in the next weeks of the preseason.
One clear option is a noted rival and current free agent, Justin Simmons. The veteran safety has made a career of Patrick Mahomes, finding ways to pick off the quarterback. Mahomes is known for his ability to protect the football and not put it in harm's way. Simmons has always been the odd exception, able to anticipate where the ball is going and make the star quarterback pay.
Andy Reid confirmed that Deon Bush sustained a torn left Achilles tendon.
— Nate Taylor (@ByNateTaylor) August 10, 2025
The Chiefs Must Explore Signing Former Rival Justin Simmons
Kansas City fans will remember this from the veteran's years with the Denver Broncos in the crowded AFC West. After parting ways with the hated rival, Simmons signed in Atlanta and made the most of his one matchup against the Chiefs, yet again picking off Mahomes. It is a familiar story that KC can put to an end by signing the star to a backup deal.
Simmons isn't the force he once was, but he can contribute in a limited role. If anything, replacing Bush with Simmons is an upgrade. If another injury strikes or there are any struggles, there won't be any hesitation in turning things over to Simmons.
The one concern is the fact that the veteran remains in free agency this deep into the preseason. It is a bit alarming, but is likely due to the safety wanting to find the best possible landing spot. Even in a frustrating role in Atlanta, Simmons was productive enough to warrant another contract.
The Chiefs are the perfect landing spot to breathe life back into the defender's career with an incredible cast and the perfect coaching staff. With the recent injury, it makes sense for both sides to at least explore.