The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing for their Sunday night showdown against the Detroit Lions, but they will likely be without rookie tackle Josh Simmons. The team announced Sunday afternoon that Simmons has been added to the injury report and is listed as questionable for personal, non-injury-related reasons.
Simmons Attends to Family Matter
According to a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Simmons traveled back to his home state of California to deal with a family matter. The report states that it is doubtful he will return in time for kickoff against the Lions.
This marks the second consecutive week Simmons has been a surprise, gameday addition to the injury report. Last week, he was listed as questionable due to an illness just before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The news comes as a difficult blow for the Chiefs, who rely on Simmons to protect the blind side. His absence will be felt, especially against a formidable Detroit Lions defense that has recorded 16 sacks this season, ranking second in the NFL.
How the Chiefs Will Adjust
With Simmons likely out, the Chiefs will need to adjust their offensive line. The team’s depth chart lists Wanya Morris and Jaylon Moore as backup tackles. It is expected that Moore, who was signed as a free agent after the 2024 season, could step into the left tackle position.
While the team focuses on the game ahead, thoughts are also with their teammate. Football is a demanding sport, but some things are more important than the game. As Simmons tends to his family, his team will have to find a way to hold the line in his absence.
The Chiefs have not released further details about the personal matter, respecting the privacy of Simmons and his family during this time. The focus for the team on the field will be to rally together and overcome this unexpected challenge against a tough opponent.
