Chiefs OL Josh Simmons Remains on Injured Reserve With Back Injury

Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Josh Simmons has not taken a single snap this season due to a mysterious back injury, Yahoo Sports reported.

The former first-round pick remains on the team’s injured reserve list as his recovery enters a period of uncertainty. While Simmons was expected to be a cornerstone of the offensive line this year, his progress has stalled.

“I have not seen him since the moment they said he plateaued,” ESPN writer Nate Taylor said during an appearance on 96.5 The Fan.

The lack of clarity regarding Simmons’ status is compounded by the team’s own vague communication. The Chiefs have stated they are still attempting to determine where the former Ohio State Buckeye will undergo rehabilitation.

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Simmons entered the 2026 season with high expectations after a promising rookie campaign. He recorded eight starts for Kansas City last year before a wrist injury ended his 2025 season prematurely.

The team planned to use him extensively this year. After being activated from injured reserve in February, he was positioned to start at left tackle.

Instead, the back injury has derailed his sophomore season. The absence of a primary tackle leaves the unit without its main protector for the quarterback and lead blocker for the run.

The implications of this injury extend beyond the individual player. For a team with championship aspirations, the stability of the offensive line is a critical component of their operational success.

The timeline for Simmons’ return remains unknown. As of November 12, the team continues to search for a permanent rehabilitation solution for the lineman.