The Kansas City Chiefs face uncertainty with the absence of their left tackle, Josh Simmons. Holding a crucial role, Simmons is tasked with the protection of Patrick Mahomes, the NFL’s standout quarterback. Yet, his appearances have been limited, featuring in only eight out of 20 games since being drafted.

In his place, rookie Khali Benson has stepped up. While the Chiefs boast a 3-0 record this season, Benson’s performance against the Dolphins highlighted vulnerabilities. The team’s highlight reel for the game shows defenders easily bypassing him at the line.

The stability Simmons brought is missed. No updates are available on whether or when he might return, leaving many puzzled. In an environment where every player’s status is closely monitored, Simmons’ case stands out.

To unravel this, we look back at the pre-draft process. During 2024, a severe knee injury ruled Simmons out for the season. Reports post-season suggested he was recovering well. Consequently, the Chiefs chose him as their 32nd pick in the draft, confident in his potential.

Though doubts surrounded Simmons’ character, not his physical condition, the Chiefs believed in his skill. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler elaborated on these concerns, indicating that character issues, not medical setbacks, led many teams to pass on Simmons.

Simmons seemed to have found his place with the Chiefs, addressing their left tackle needs temporarily. However, this changed drastically in October 2025. Before facing the Jaguars, Simmons was unexpectedly marked as questionable due to an ‘illness,’ yet he performed well when he played.

This incident was overshadowed by events the following week when Simmons missed pregame duties against the Lions. Despite speculation, Coach Andy Reid provided minimal clarification during Simmons’ four-game absence, citing personal or family reasons.

The mystery spanned over a year until Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame reported Simmons had left the team without notice, leaving the staff unaware of his whereabouts. Attempts by OutKick to confirm these stories met silence from team officials.

Currently, Simmons remains absent, having missed all team practices since August. Despite a ‘minor’ back injury as previously reported, the lack of transparency persists. Coach Reid’s vague updates add to the intrigue, contrasting with his usual detailed reports about other players.

Unlike the comprehensive injury reports on other players by major networks, the coverage on Simmons is scant. Only Jeremy Fowler has labeled the situation as ‘mysterious,’ reflecting the opacity surrounding his absence.

Hayden Winks, an NFL analyst, speculates on the possibility of Simmons’ absence being longer than expected. Price Carter, a Chiefs analyst, underscores the oddity of the situation, highlighting the limited information available.

Though speculations rise, one key element remains: Simmons’ crucial role as left tackle. The Chiefs’ silence and his continued listing on the active roster without explanation or a placement on injured reserve fuel the mystery. This lack of clarity invites speculation about the nature of his absence.

In conclusion, the Chiefs face a decision. Provide transparency on Simmons’ situation, or make a roster move reflecting an unclear return timeline. Until such actions are taken, questions about his commitment and future with the team remain.