Mahomes Praises Josh Simmons’ Potential to Replace Chiefs’ Star
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May 16, 2025
Kansas City, MO – Patrick Mahomes, the three-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, has high praise for rookie offensive tackle Josh Simmons, hinting that the first-round pick could soon replace a current star in the team’s lineup.
Mahomes Sees Big Things in Simmons
Simmons, selected 32nd overall in the 2025 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, has been turning heads at the Chiefs’ OTAs with his agility and pass-blocking prowess. With an 82.2 PFF pass-blocking grade in college and allowing just one sack over two seasons, Simmons is seen as a solution to the Chiefs’ left tackle struggles, exposed in their Super Bowl LIX loss to the Eagles (Bleacher Report).
“He’s got the tools to be elite,” Mahomes told Chiefs Digest after practice on May 15, 2025. “Josh moves so well, and he’s picking up our system fast. I feel safer already.”
Mahomes’ comments come as the Chiefs look to bolster their offensive line, which allowed 6 sacks in the Super Bowl, hindering his ability to connect on deep passes—a focus for 2025 with receivers like Xavier Worthy and Rashee Rice.
A Star on the Chopping Block?
Simmons’ arrival could spell trouble for veteran left tackle D.J. Humphries, who signed a one-year deal in 2024 but struggled with injuries and consistency, allowing 4 sacks in 10 games (ESPN). At 31, Humphries’ $10 million cap hit in 2025 makes him a potential cut candidate if Simmons proves ready to start. GM Brett Veach has called Simmons “a steal” at pick 32, despite his ongoing recovery from a torn patella, expecting him to be fully fit by training camp (Chiefs.com).
With Simmons potentially taking over, Mahomes could get the protection he needs to reclaim the Chiefs’ dominance in the AFC.
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