The Kansas City Chiefs made a surprise move at the end of Round 1. In a late-night draft trade, Kansas City swapped pick No. 31 to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for picks No. 32 and No. 164. The Chiefs used that selection to take offensive tackle Josh Simmons out of Ohio State.
Kansas City’s decision to target Simmons comes with calculated risk and clear upside. The 6-foot-6 lineman is recovering from a torn patellar tendon suffered in October. But team doctors cleared him, and his rehab reportedly impressed scouts at the Combine medical rechecks.
Kansas City Chiefs Bets on Josh Simmons Talent
Simmons brings a physical, nasty style with strong athletic traits and mobility. A three-year starter, he played two seasons at San Diego State before transferring to Ohio State in 2023. He started 18 games as a Buckeye and showed versatility, playing both tackle spots.
On film, Simmons jumps out with his fluidity and technical polish in pass protection. He can mirror speed off the edge and absorb contact well with strong anchor strength. His recovery, however, remains one of the biggest storylines surrounding his draft profile.
Josh Simmons Projects as Day-One Starter
What made Simmons a late first-round pick is his ability to move people in the run game. He works well in zone and gap schemes, with fast hands and a strong pad level. The Chiefs believe Simmons can contribute right away and possibly start at left tackle in 2025.
Scouts were particularly impressed by his movement skills during on-field workouts. Despite the knee injury, Simmons has resumed sled work and full lower-body lifts. All reports say there have been no setbacks, and he’s on track for training camp.
Final Thoughts
This selection marks the third time in four years Kansas City has taken an offensive lineman early. General manager Brett Veach clearly values positional depth and versatility in the trenches. Simmons fits the mold of previous Chiefs linemen with his attitude and mobility.
While there’s a risk, the potential reward makes this move worth it for Kansas City. If Simmons stays healthy, he could anchor the line for years to come—something Patrick Mahomes and the offense would certainly welcome.
