The Kansas City Chiefs have gotten by just fine without Josh Simmons, but that doesn't mean they're a better team without their starting left tackle. If anything, they should only get better once he's back in game shape, whenever that might be.
Simmons has been dealing with a mysterious back injury, prompting wild rumors and speculation on social media. That's mostly on the team, though, as they've been rather cryptic about his situation dating back to training camp.
That's why it was encouraging to hear a change in tone about Simmons, most notably from head coach Andy Reid. Not only did Reid reveal that he might avoid surgery, but it also sounds like injured reserve was never an option.
Chiefs LT Josh Simmons is making progress but without a clear return timeline
"He is making progress," Coach Reid said of Simmons (h/t Nate Taylor). "He's had a bulging disc in his (lower) back. ... He's getting strong, which is important. Backs can be tricky."
Simmons still has to earn his stripes. Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson has done a more-than-admirable job in his absence, given the circumstances. That said, Simmons was absolutely elite when left on an island, and he showed glimpses of great play in his first season in the league.
"Are we sure Josh Simmons is the LT when he comes back to play?"
— DMac Wake (@DMacWake316) September 29, 2026
Yes, yes we are very sure. pic.twitter.com/c2bo8uUl3f
According to PFF, the former first-round pick allowed 18 pressures on 367 snaps as a rookie, but he only gave up a pair of sacks and two quarterback hits. If Benson, a natural right tackle, continues his ascension, the Chiefs may have found their starting tackle duo for years to come.
Blindside protection has been one of the Chiefs' primary issues for most of the Patrick Mahomes era. He's taken four sacks through the first three games of the season, and while none of those have been on Benson, having him slide back to his preferred spot might make this even better.
Mahomes is coming off the first major injury of his career, so keeping him out of harm's way will be even more crucial than ever. Riding with Kenneth Walker III should help keep Mahomes fresh and not wear him out so much, but still, a quarterback needs his left tackle.
Simmons' career has gotten off to a bizarre start. Watching him miss so much time has obviously raised questions about his durability and future with the organization, but the talent and physical tools are simply undeniable.
While there's still no clear timetable for his return and the team doesn't want to make any promises, the mere fact that he won't have to go under the knife is positive news. Most likely, the Chiefs will hold him out until after the Week 6 bye to give him more time to heal.
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