Chiefs Coach Andy Reid Finally Addresses Rookie Josh Simmons' Mysterious Absence
Chiefs Coach Andy Reid Finally Addresses Rookie Josh Simmons' Mysterious Absence
For weeks, Kansas City Chiefs fans have been wondering. Where is Josh Simmons, the first-round pick from Ohio State and a rising star on the offensive line? After two straight games without playing, the silence surrounding Simmons' absence has become one of the biggest mysteries in Chiefs Kingdom.
That changed Thursday afternoon. Head coach Andy Reid finally addressed the speculation, confirming that Simmons was absent for family reasons. "He's taking care of the most important things," Reid told reporters. "It's a positive situation, not a negative situation. He's just taking care of business - and he's done a great job of communicating with us."
It was the kind of statement only Reid could make—both firm and sympathetic, quelling rumors while reminding everyone that football sometimes has to take a backseat to life. The coach’s words seemed like a relief, not a disappointment. “When you have something that important, you have to deal with it,” he added.
“Not every victory is on the scoreboard—some are about spirit, courage, and taking care of family. This story goes beyond football.”
Sources close to the team say Simmons has not yet returned to practice and is unlikely to play in Monday night’s game against the Washington Commanders. However, there is optimism that he could return to the lineup after the team’s off week, with a projected return date of November 16 in Denver.
When asked at the NFL owners meeting in New York, Chiefs owner Clark Hunt declined to comment, while general manager Brett Veach is still handling the situation privately. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes also kept a low profile, saying only: "I'm going to keep our conversation private. I'm praying for all my teammates."
Regardless, one thing is clear — the Chiefs will not turn their backs on Josh Simmons. In a season filled with adversity and headlines, Reid's calm words serve as a reminder that Kansas City's culture runs deeper than football. Sometimes, even in the NFL, family comes first.
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Kansas City, Missouri. In an emotional surge of unity across the Midwest, Chiefs fans are rallying behind one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history. Will Shields, the 12 time Pro Bowler and Hall of Fame guard who anchored Kansas City’s trenches from 1993 to 2006, is now confronting a life threatening health challenge. The 54 year old legend is battling stage 4 kidney cancer. The news has reignited a powerful wave of love, prayers, and shared memories throughout Chiefs Kingdom.
Shields is not just a former player. He is the embodiment of what it means to be a Kansas City Chief. Drafted in 1993. he quickly became the iron man of the franchise. playing 231 consecutive games and earning 3 First Team All Pro honors. He helped lead the Chiefs to multiple playoff appearances and the 1997 AFC Championship Game. His durability and commitment earned him the nickname “the soul of the offensive line,” a symbol of consistency in an era defined by grit and physicality.
Beyond the statistics, Shields built his legacy on leadership. mentorship. and an unwavering work ethic. His influence stretched far beyond Arrowhead Stadium. After retiring in 2006, he continued serving the Kansas City community through youth programs. charity foundations. and leadership initiatives. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2015 only cemented what fans already knew. that Will Shields was more than a football star. he was a foundational figure in the story of the Chiefs.
When Shields revealed earlier this year that he had been diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer. Chiefs Kingdom was shaken. His updates on Instagram and through his faith driven podcast have shown the exhausting reality of chemotherapy. fatigue. and the fight to remain strong for his family. Despite this. he still appeared at the Chiefs Legends Weekend in June. moving slowly. but smiling bravely as fans surrounded him with love and support.
This week. support erupted once again. Social media platforms were filled with messages. memories. and prayer chains tagged #PrayForShields. Fans shared clips of Shields bulldozing defensive lines. protecting quarterbacks. and pulling on iconic sweep plays that defined an entire Chiefs era. Others shared stories of meeting him. describing how kind. humble. and generous he remained even at the height of his career.
“Stay strong Will. You carried this team for 14 years. Now we carry you,” one fan posted. It became one of thousands of messages echoing the same belief. that Shields’ spirit. heart. and faith made him an icon far beyond football.
As Chiefs Kingdom bands together, the message is clear. Will Shields is not facing this fight alone. Kansas City stands with him. prays for him. and honors everything he has given to the city. In moments like this, the power of a community is undeniable. and the legacy of one of its greatest heroes shines even brighter.
Stay strong Will Shields. Chiefs Kingdom is with you. forever
