From Family Time To Football: Chiefs Locker Room Erupts As Josh Simmons’ Emotional, Unexpected Return Ignites Hope In Kansas City

From Family Time To Football: Chiefs Locker Room Erupts As Josh Simmons’ Emotional, Unexpected Return Ignites Hope In Kansas City

After a tense four-week absence, rookie left tackle Josh Simmons — the Kansas City Chiefs’ first-round pick out of Ohio State — has officially returned to the team’s training facility. Simmons had been away since mid-October, missing four games due to a personal family matter in his hometown of San Diego, California. His return couldn’t come at a better time for the reigning champions, who have struggled to protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes in recent weeks.

Simmons’ absence began before the Chiefs’ Week 6 showdown against the Detroit Lions. At the time, head coach Andy Reid declined to share details, only saying that Simmons was “dealing with something important.” In his place, backup tackle Jaylon Moore filled in on the left side — but the results were less than ideal. Over the past four games, Moore has allowed three sacks and twelve pressures, compared to just one sack surrendered by Simmons before his leave.

The timing of Simmons’ return is crucial. The Chiefs enter their bye week desperate to regroup after a disappointing loss to the Buffalo Bills that exposed the offensive line’s vulnerabilities. Mahomes was visibly frustrated, facing constant pressure and limited time to execute plays. Analysts pointed out that Kansas City’s offense “hasn’t looked the same” without Simmons anchoring Mahomes’ blindside.

Head coach Andy Reid spoke briefly about the situation on Monday:

“I won’t comment on the details, but I’m proud of Josh. He did what mattered most — family first. Now it’s time to get back, protect Mahomes, and get this team rolling again.”

Inside the locker room, teammates welcomed Simmons’ return with open arms. The young lineman has already resumed light workouts and meetings with offensive line coach Andy Heck. Sources inside the organization say the team plans to evaluate his readiness throughout the week.

While it’s still uncertain whether Simmons will be active for the Week 11 matchup, one thing is clear — his return brings hope and stability to a Chiefs offense that has sorely missed his presence. For Kansas City fans, this is more than just good news — it’s a sign that help has finally arrived for Patrick Mahomes.