The Kansas City Chiefs are keeping tight-lipped about Josh Simmons’ ongoing absence, and it’s sparking curiosity across the league. Why is one of their key players missing, and what does it mean for the team’s future? In a recent media session, head coach Andy Reid dropped a bombshell—but offered little clarity. ‘Regarding Josh Simmons, I won’t be commenting today,’ Reid stated firmly. ‘General Manager Brett Veach is handling the situation, and that’s all I’ll say.’ But here’s where it gets intriguing: What exactly is going on with the starting left tackle? As of now, fans and analysts alike are left to speculate.
The mystery began just hours before Sunday’s kickoff, when Simmons was suddenly added to the injury report with a ‘personal’ designation. By 2 p.m. Arrowhead Time, the news had spread, and by 3 p.m., NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo revealed that Simmons was addressing a family matter in California. Fast forward to 5 p.m., and James Palmer confirmed Simmons would sit out the game. Yet, despite the initial reports, the Chiefs’ silence has only deepened the enigma.
On Wednesday, Reid remained steadfast in his refusal to elaborate, even declining to confirm Simmons’ availability for practice. The injury report later that day simply listed him as ‘not injury related-personal.’ Quarterback Patrick Mahomes followed suit, keeping his conversations with Simmons private. ‘I’m always praying for him,’ Mahomes shared, ‘but the rest stays between us.’
And this is the part most people miss: Unlike defensive tackle Chris Jones, who famously returned to play after attending his aunt’s funeral, Simmons’ situation appears far more complex. While swing tackle Jaylon Moore stepped up admirably against the Lions, the long-term implications of Simmons’ absence remain unclear. After all, Simmons is a cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line, with a career trajectory that’s been nothing short of remarkable. His value extends well beyond 2025, making his current situation all the more critical.
Is this a temporary setback, or something more significant? The Chiefs’ reluctance to share details has fueled speculation, and it’s a topic that’s sure to divide opinions. Some argue that the team is prioritizing Simmons’ privacy, while others wonder if there’s more to the story. What do you think? Is the Chiefs’ silence justified, or should they be more transparent? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned, because this story is far from over.
