Chiefs' Rookie LT Will Return to Team After Absence - Fans Sympathize for This Reason

Kansas City Chiefs injury updates 2025 – In a heartening development for Chiefs Kingdom ahead of their high-stakes Chiefs vs Commanders NFL Week 8 2025 matchup on Monday Night Football, rookie left tackle Josh Simmons is expected to rejoin the team in "a few weeks" following a brief absence for personal reasons. The 2025 first-round pick, who has been a standout protector for Patrick Mahomes, stepped away to handle a family situation, sparking concern among fans and analysts. With the Chiefs riding high at 4-3 after back-to-back dominant wins, including a 31-0 shutout over the Raiders, this update from head coach Andy Reid brings relief as Kansas City eyes a playoff push. Dive into the latest Chiefs LT Josh Simmons news, his impact on the offensive line, and what his return means for the red-hot Chiefs offense.

Josh Simmons: From Ohio State Star to Chiefs Rookie Sensation – A Quick Background

Selected as the No. 32 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Josh Simmons brings elite pedigree from Ohio State, where he anchored the Buckeyes' national championship run despite missing over half his senior year due to a season-ending knee injury. As a rookie, Simmons quickly earned a starting role at left tackle, logging six games and posting the NFL's lowest pressure rate (0.7%) among tackles with 100+ pass-blocking snaps. Protecting Mahomes' blindside, Simmons has been instrumental in Kansas City's top-5 offense (412 yards/game recently), allowing just two sacks in his starts. His absence – the second extended miss in as many seasons – tested the Chiefs' depth, but it also highlighted their resilience.

The Personal Absence: Family First, Football Second – Timeline and Details

Simmons started the first five games of his pro career but was sidelined for Weeks 6 and 7, returning home to California before the Lions matchup. Listed as out for "personal" reasons on the injury report, the rookie missed practices and games, fueling speculation in NFL circles. Reports confirm it's a "family situation," emphasizing the human side of the sport amid the grind of a 17-game season. He's projected to miss at least one more contest, including the pivotal Monday night tilt against the 3-4 Commanders at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (October 27, 2025, 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN/ABC).

Chiefs HC Andy Reid addressed the situation with his signature empathy during Thursday's presser: "My update for you with Josh would just be, there's communication. I'm not going to get into all of it. Everything's positive. It's not a negative situation. He's taking care of family." QB Patrick Mahomes echoed the support, keeping it close to the vest: "I'll keep conversations kind of between us. But I'm always praying for him. I'm praying for all my teammates, so I'm always praying for him. I'll just keep everything else kind of private to us." This family-first approach aligns with Reid's philosophy, prioritizing player well-being over immediate gridiron needs.

Impact on Chiefs Offense: Depth Shines, But Simmons' Return Boosts Protection

Without Simmons, backup Jaylon Moore stepped in seamlessly, helping the Chiefs go 2-0 in his absence – a 30-point explosion against the Lions and a historic 31-0 blanking of the Raiders (their first regular-season shutout since 2011). Kansas City's O-line held firm, surrendering minimal pressures and fueling Mahomes' efficient play (286 yards, 3 TDs in Week 7). Yet, Simmons' elite metrics underscore his value: His sub-1% pressure rate has been a game-changer for Mahomes, who ranks top-5 in passing TDs (14) despite early-season hiccups.

Looking ahead, Simmons' return could supercharge the Chiefs' protection against Washington's aggressive front (led by Frankie Luvu and Bobby Wagner). With the team already No. 3 in scoring defense (16.0 points/game last three), a healthy O-line positions KC as AFC frontrunners – especially if they cover the -12.5 spread vs. the Commanders (O/U 47.5, per BetMGM).

Broader NFL Context: Rookie Resilience and Chiefs' Dynasty Push in 2025

Simmons' story resonates in a league where mental health and family matters increasingly take center stage, amid the NFL's $20B media deals and parity-driven narratives. The Chiefs (4-3) have rebounded from an 0-2 start, showcasing depth that rivals Super Bowl contenders like the 6-1 Colts. His knee history from Ohio State adds grit to the comeback tale, drawing parallels to other rookies overcoming adversity.

As Week 8 unfolds with byes for teams like the Lions, this MNF clash (stream on Fubo) could be a statement win for Reid's squad. ESPN's FPI gives KC an 78.6% edge, but a healthy Simmons tips the scales further.

U.S. NFL News Buzz: Fans on X are rallying with #ChiefsFamilyFirst, praising Reid's handling. Per CBS Sports reports, Simmons' low-key return timeline avoids rushing a key asset, smart amid Mahomes' wrist watch.

Stay tuned for Chiefs vs Commanders live updates on NFL.com or ESPN. Will Simmons' homecoming spark another Chiefs dynasty run? Share your thoughts below and subscribe for more Kansas City Chiefs news 2025! #ChiefsRookie #JoshSimmons #NFLWeek8 #ChiefsVsCommanders