The Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive line has been dealt a significant setback as rookie tackle Josh Simmons, the team’s first-round draft pick in 2024, has been ruled out for their Week 8 Monday Night Football clash against the Washington Commanders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. This marks the third consecutive week that the 22-year-old former Ohio State national champion will be absent from the lineup, according to Kansas City Star beat reporter Pete Sweeney.
Simmons’ ongoing absence, which has been shrouded in mystery, continued to raise questions as he failed to appear at practice on Saturday. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided a vague update on Thursday, stating that Simmons is “taking care of family” and “taking care of business.” However, no clear explanation has been offered regarding the nature of his absence, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the rookie’s status.
A Natural Target for Return
Despite the uncertainty, there is a glimmer of hope for Simmons’ return. According to a report by The Athletic’s Chiefs insider Jesse Newell, a potential comeback date has emerged. Newell suggests that the Chiefs’ bye week, following their upcoming games against the Washington Commanders and the Buffalo Bills, could serve as a “natural” target for Simmons to rejoin the team. Specifically, November 16, when the Chiefs face the Denver Broncos on the road, has been identified as a possible return date.
ESPN’s Chiefs reporter Nate Taylor echoed this sentiment, citing sources who indicated that Simmons is expected to return “in a few weeks.” Taylor also pointed to early November, during the team’s bye week, as a logical time for the rookie to resume playing. This timeline aligns with Newell’s report, reinforcing the notion that the November 16 matchup against the Broncos could mark Simmons’ return to the field.
A Pivotal Moment for the Chiefs
The game against the Denver Broncos could be a defining moment for the Chiefs’ 2025 season. Currently sitting at 4-3 and third in the AFC West, Kansas City trails the division-leading Denver Broncos, who hold a 5-2 record heading into their Week 8 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. The Los Angeles Chargers, with a 5-3 record after a dominant 37-10 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, further complicate the division race.
Following their Monday Night game against a struggling Washington team, the Chiefs face a daunting road trip to Buffalo to take on the Bills, who have defeated Kansas City in four consecutive regular-season meetings. Should the Chiefs fall to the Bills, they could enter the Denver game with a 5-4 record. Meanwhile, the Broncos face a favorable schedule, with matchups against the 2-4 Houston Texans and the 2-5 Las Vegas Raiders before hosting Kansas City. A strong performance in those games could see Denver improve to 7-3, making the November 16 clash a must-win for the Chiefs.
A loss to the Broncos could severely jeopardize Kansas City’s hopes of securing a 10th consecutive AFC West title and potentially even threaten their playoff streak, which has been intact since 2014 under Andy Reid’s leadership.
Simmons’ Importance to the Chiefs
Josh Simmons, selected as the 32nd overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line. Earning the starting left tackle position during training camp, Simmons impressed coaches and front-office staff with his competitiveness, coachability, and ability to move past mistakes. In his first five games, he showcased the skills that made him a highly touted prospect out of Ohio State, providing stability to an offensive line tasked with protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
His absence has been keenly felt, particularly as the Chiefs face a critical stretch of their season. With tough opponents like the Bills and Broncos on the horizon, Kansas City will need Simmons’ talent and tenacity to bolster their offensive front and maintain their postseason aspirations.
As the Chiefs navigate the challenges of Week 8 and beyond, all eyes will be on Simmons’ recovery and return. His presence on the field could be a game-changer for a team looking to reclaim its dominance in the AFC West. For now, Kansas City must soldier on without their promising rookie, hoping to stay competitive until he rejoins the lineup in what promises to be a pivotal showdown in Denver.
Fans and analysts alike will continue to monitor updates on Simmons’ status, with the hope that his return will provide the spark the Chiefs need to keep their championship dreams alive.