The Chiefs’ Offensive Line Secret Revealed: How Josh Simmons’ Presence Makes Mahomes Look Like a Superstar — And His Absence Shakes the Entire Game 

The Chiefs’ Offensive Line Secret Revealed: How Josh Simmons’ Presence Makes Mahomes Look Like a Superstar — And His Absence Shakes the Entire Game 

The Kansas City Chiefs entered the season with high expectations, and one position has quietly become a focal point: left tackle. Josh Simmons, the team’s starting LT, has missed a few games, replaced by Jaylon Moore, creating a fascinating case study in how one position can subtly—but significantly—impact Patrick Mahomes and the offense.

When Simmons has been on the field, the Chiefs’ record sits at 2-3. When Moore steps in, the team surprisingly thrives, going 3-1. At first glance, it seems counterintuitive: losing your starting left tackle would normally hurt the offense—but the numbers tell a more nuanced story.

Offensively, Kansas City actually posts slightly higher production without Simmons. Points per game jump from 25 to 27.5, total yards climb from 361 to 381.5, and first downs per game increase from 21.4 to 24.5. Moore’s presence hasn’t slowed Mahomes; in fact, it may have opened lanes for quicker throws and more aggressive play-calling.

Mahomes’ stats mirror this trend. Without Simmons, he averages 273 passing yards per game compared to 251.4 with Simmons. His passer rating jumps from 93.5 to 104.6, and his completion rate improves from 63.4% to 66.2%. He’s taking fewer throws per game (33.3 vs 36.6) but maximizing efficiency—proof that the offense can adapt seamlessly to a new LT.

However, the difference comes in protection. Simmons clearly provides more security, allowing Mahomes to avoid sacks. With Simmons, he’s only sacked 1.4 times per game, versus 2.5 when Moore is in. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid addressed this balance:

"Don’t jump to conclusions. Josh gives us stability—Mahomes only takes 1.4 sacks per game with him. Jaylon? He’s fast, agile, lets us throw quicker, and makes our play-action pop. Two different styles. I’ve got two sharp knives—I pick which one to use depending on the game."

The takeaway: Moore injects short-term explosiveness, while Simmons offers steady, long-term protection. Chiefs fans can breathe easy knowing the team hasn’t skipped a beat at left tackle, but the return of Simmons will give the coaching staff decisions to balance aggression and safety.

Ultimately, Kansas City’s offensive line situation is a testament to depth and adaptability. Simmons or Moore, the Chiefs’ offense remains elite, with Mahomes finding ways to thrive—whether he’s facing the pressure of a return or enjoying the freedom of a smooth replacement. The left tackle debate might be heating up, but the offense keeps rolling, one yard, one point, one touchdown at a time.