It seems the Kansas City Chiefs are continuing to prepare for another game without rookie tackle Josh Simmons. The reasons for Simmons' departure haven't been offered, with it seeming to be a personal situation that has kept the rookie away But Chiefs' fans have had the right approach, hoping and praying for the best while anxiously awaiting the lineman's return.
Whatever Simmons is attending to is obviously far more important than a game. Pete Sweeney of the Kansas City Star confirmed this, reporting that Simmons was still unable to take part in Thursday's practice.
Chiefs Rookie Left Tackle Josh Simmons Remains Out of Kansas City's Practice
While fellow rookie Brashard Smith was able to return, the lack of news around Simmons is still disheartening. Not due to football reasons, but out of concern for a young man who has quickly won over a fan base that believes they have their left tackle of the future. Kansas City does an incredible job of embracing and supporting its players off the field. This has been the case for the fan base throughout Simmons missing time and should continue to be the approach. There is no other appropriate mindset for the unknowns of the situation.
With that said, this is in no way to minimize the loss of Simmons or how anxious Chiefs fans are to have their tackle of hte future back in the lineup. Rather, it is acknowledging the reality of the situation and understanding that this is simply a game. One that has given a lot to its players and fans, but still a game nonetheless.
Until Simmons is able to return, Jaylon Moore will continue to fill in, coming off a great starting debut against the Detroit Lions. Moore proved himself more than capable of holding up and buying Patrick Mahomes time to make plays. The backup tackle was paid as a possible starter heading into the year, with the questions around a rookie starter and right tackle Jawaan Taylor, who often cannot get out of his own way.
Simmons isn't in any danger of losing his job based on the ceiling and contract situations. Still, it is great to know Moore can be relied on and is a possible replacement for Taylor if penalty issues were to come back around.
For now, focus remains on sending Simmons well wishes and prayers while walking through an unknown situation. One that fans hope works out favorably and allows the rookie to continue his ascent as the left tackle of the future.