It's been over a month since the Kansas City Chiefs last had their starting left tackle on the field. Josh Simmons was away from the Chiefs to attend to an undisclosed family matter, but he's finally back with the team and practicing.
Blindside protection has been a major concern for this team for years now, and it was the case again in the first-round pick's absence. Nevertheless, there aren't handouts in the league, and all rookies have to earn their stripes.
The Chiefs Will Make Josh Simmons Work For His Starting Spot
Head coach Andy Reid confirmed that Simmons would be back in practice after the bye week. However, as reported by Chiefs insider Charles Goldman of A to Z Sports, that doesn't mean Kansas City will just give Simmons his starting spot back:
"He'll jump in and see what he can do and mix it up out there... I just want to see him back in there... I'm glad he's back and can get going. Let's see how he is... I'm sure he's going to be OK, but we'll see," Reid said, via Goldman.
Of course, it's hard to envision any scenario in which the Chiefs won't start him at left tackle against the Denver Broncos. Even though he was away from the team, he may have been working out and staying in game shape, and watching tape, while remaining in constant communication with the team.
Still, this is the right thing for a winning organization to do with a young player. There will be no favorites, and this approach sends a loud and clear message that everybody will have to work and fight hard for every snap they're out there.
That being said, Simmons can't come back soon enough. The Ohio State product has been outstanding in keeping Patrick Mahomes out of harm's way, more often than not. His backup, Jaylon Moore, on the other hand, has given up three sacks and 12 pressures in four games.
The Broncos boast a stout front seven, and they're currently leading the league in sacks. As division rivals, they're pretty familiar with Mahomes and will look to keep him on his toes from start to finish. Simmons won't be eased back into action, and he will be crucial in making sure this team comes out of the bye week with a much-needed bounce-back win.