Chiefs Rookie LT Could Steal Starting Job

Simmons, 22, was selected 32nd overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, bringing a stellar college resume with an 82.2 Pro Football Focus (PFF) pass-blocking grade in 2024, allowing zero sacks across eight games, per PFF. Despite a patellar tendon injury that ended his final college season, his 6’5”, 317-pound frame and 4.9-second 40-yard dash speed mark him as a rare talent. “Josh is a cornerstone for our future,” head coach Andy Reid said during a May 16 press conference, per Chiefs.com.

The current starter, Jaylon Moore, struggled in 2024, posting a 65.8 PFF grade and allowing 10 pressures, per PFF, exposing Mahomes to 36 sacks, a career high, per ESPN. Other competitors, including Wanya Morris and potential free-agent signee D.J. Humphries, have yet to solidify the position, giving Simmons a clear path to seize the role. “Simmons’ tape shows elite potential,” NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah tweeted. “He could be Mahomes’ blindside protector by Week 1.”

The Chiefs’ 2025 draft class—including Simmons, Omarr Norman-Lott, Ashton Gillotte, Nohl Williams, Jalen Royals, Jeffrey Bassa, and Brashard Smith—emphasized youth and athleticism, but Simmons’ polish sets him apart. His rise complements offseason moves like Travis Kelce’s restructured contract and the signing of Amari Cooper, aimed at fortifying the offense around Mahomes. General Manager Brett Veach called Simmons “a future star” in a post-draft interview, per The Athletic.

Chiefs Kingdom is abuzz with excitement on X. “Simmons locking down LT? Mahomes about to cook!” posted @ArrowheadPride. With two draft picks remaining, including No. 226, Kansas City is eyeing secondary depth, per ESPN. Simmons’ potential to steal the starting left tackle job is fueling Super Bowl aspirations, promising a robust shield for Mahomes’ high-powered attack as the Chiefs chase a third straight title.