Head coach Andy Reid initially downplayed the concern, suggesting fans shouldn’t worry, but the reality proved more complex. Simmons did not participate in any preseason snaps, and the team did not provide a clear timeline for his return. In early September, Reid described the situation as one that required patience, noting that Simmons had a back issue that needed time to calm down and that rehabilitation was ongoing. He emphasized that there was no fixed timetable for his return and that the priority was ensuring Simmons is healthy enough to play.
As insiders discussed the situation, a notable Chiefs reporter suggested that Week 1 participation seemed unlikely. The reporter indicated that, based on the team’s moves and treatment of the injury, Simmons might be out at least into Week 3, with the likelihood of ensuring he’s ready before returning. The expectation described was that Kahlil Benson could line up at left tackle, with Jaylon Moore at right tackle, if Simmons could not play in Week 1. While this wasn’t presented as a final verdict, it reflected the growing belief that Simmons would not start immediately.
Reid later confirmed the nuanced status, reiterating that there is a real chance Simmons does not play in the season opener. He explained that the team is prioritizing Simmons’ health and that there is no hard deadline for his return. If Simmons cannot go, Benson would fill the left tackle spot, and Moore would take over at right tackle. The sense from the latest update was that the Chiefs would proceed with a best-available lineup and adjust as Simmons’ condition evolved.
The uncertainty surrounding Simmons is significant for the Chiefs. Replacing him with alternative linemen raises questions about stability and performance on the edge. Benson has experience at right tackle and is less accustomed to left tackle duties, while Moore has rotated at both positions but has spent time at left tackle during Simmons’ absence. The situation is particularly notable given Simmons’ trajectory: the 2026 season represents a pivotal “prove it” year after a string of injuries. A torn patellar tendon ended his 2024 college season, and in his rookie NFL year he appeared in only eight games. A fractured wrist caused four missed games, and an undisclosed personal matter kept him out for four more games.
As the Chiefs prepare for Week 1, the focus is on balancing immediate readiness with long-term health. The coaching staff has stressed a careful, patient approach, prioritizing Simmons’ recovery over rushing him back prematurely. For fans and analysts, the core question remains: if Simmons can return quickly, the team gains a familiar anchor on the line; if not, the team will need to rely on a rotated or adjusted line for the early part of the season while preserving Simmons for the stretch run.
The evolving situation has kept fans engaged, with discussions centering on how the offense will protect the quarterback and establish the running game without a settled left tackle. The Chiefs’ decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial not only for Week 1 but for the broader outlook of the offensive line depth and flexibility. As the season begins, the emphasis remains on health first, performance second, with the likelihood that Simmons could return at some point soon, provided his back injury subsides and rehabilitation progresses as hoped.
