Full Breakdown
Mystery Surrounds Kansas City Chiefs Rookie Josh Simmons' Absence
10/22/2025, 3:33:39 PM
Ongoing Absence and Initial Concerns
Josh Simmons, the Kansas City Chiefs' 2025 first-round draft pick, has been absent from team activities, raising questions about his status. The offensive left tackle, selected 32nd overall from Ohio State, started the first four games of the season without incident. However, the first sign of trouble emerged during Week Five, when Simmons was added to the injury report as “questionable” due to “illness” just hours before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Despite this, he played all 64 offensive snaps in that game, demonstrating his capability on the field.
Shift to Personal Matters
The situation took a turn in Week Six when Simmons was unexpectedly ruled out of the game against the Detroit Lions for “Not Injury Related – Personal” reasons. Following this, NFL Network correspondent Ian Rapoport reported that Simmons was dealing with a family matter back in California. Since then, he has not been seen at the Chiefs' facility and missed the Week Seven game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Lack of Communication from Team Officials
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach have remained tight-lipped about Simmons' absence. Reid has repeatedly stated that Veach is managing the situation, offering no further updates. During the NFL owners' meeting in New York, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt was asked about Simmons but responded evasively, stating, “I really can’t comment.” This lack of clarity has left fans and analysts puzzled about Simmons' future with the team.
Reactions from Teammates
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes expressed surprise at Simmons' absence, indicating that the standard communication process for a player missing a game was not followed. Mahomes noted that he was unaware of Simmons' situation until shortly before the game against the Lions. He stated, “I didn’t fully know... so I knew something was up.” Despite the uncertainty, Mahomes emphasized his support for Simmons, saying, “I’m always praying for all my teammates.”
Implications for the Team
As the Chiefs prepare for their Week Eight matchup against the Washington Commanders, Simmons' absence continues to be a topic of concern. He has not been placed on the NFL’s Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, which suggests the team anticipates his return sooner rather than later. The upcoming practices could provide more clarity on Simmons' situation, either resolving the mystery or deepening it further.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I really can’t comment,” — Clark Hunt, Owner of the Kansas City Chiefs
- “' The coach said: 'As far as Josh goes I don't have any updates for you.” — Andy Reid, Head Coach of the Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs and their fans await further developments regarding Josh Simmons, hoping for a resolution to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his absence.
