Kansas City Chiefs’ 2025 Draft Selection: A Look at Josh Simmons

The Kansas City Chiefs made a strategic move during the NFL Draft by selecting Josh Simmons, a talented left tackle from Ohio State, with the 32nd overall pick. This decision reflects the team's commitment to strengthening their offensive line, a critical aspect of achieving success in the upcoming season.

Pre-Draft Analysis

In my previous analysis of Simmons, I was struck by his impressive physical attributes showcased in his game films. The young athlete possesses fluid footwork, a strong base, and the necessary power to compete at the professional level. Had it not been for a patellar knee injury he sustained in October 2024, he would have likely been a first-round pick. Although this injury may slow his initial 2025 development, it doesn't overshadow the promise he brings to the Chiefs.

Positioned for Success

Fortunately for the Chiefs, their strong moves in free agency have alleviated the immediate need for a rookie left tackle. This opens up the opportunity to integrate Simmons into the team gradually. While the Chiefs can opt to give him a “redshirt” year during the 2025 season, this year will still play a crucial role in his overall growth and understanding of the game.

Health Comes First

The priority for Simmons will be his recovery and readiness for professional play. Patellar tendon injuries can require a recovery period ranging from six to twelve months. During the initial press conference after the draft, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid provided an optimistic update, stating that Simmons’ surgery appeared successful, and he is expected to be ready for training camp. This indicates a positive medical evaluation, which bodes well for the team and fans alike.

Notably, a snippet of footage from Ohio State's pro day revealed Simmons participating in some limited activities, despite not engaging in any athletic testing. This serves as a hopeful indication of his recovery progress.

Making the Most of the Time

While Simmons may not be cleared for contact right away, the organized team activities (OTAs) and minicamps will provide him with invaluable mental reps and an understanding of the Chiefs’ extensive playbook. Reid is known for his complex schemes; players must grasp these intricacies to succeed early in their careers.

Though OTAs and minicamps will be non-contact sessions, they offer Simmons ample time to ensure proper healing of his knee while participating in low-tempo walk-throughs. This unique environment allows him to absorb the playbook without the pressures of a competitive practice.

As training camp approaches, the decision regarding when Simmons can fully participate will rest with the coaching and training staff. In the meantime, this will allow him to refine specific facets of his game that require improvement.

Areas for Development

One critical area that Simmons needs to focus on is his power in pass protection. While he has the physical tools to be effective, there is room for improvement in delivering forceful strikes with his hands. 💪

A highlight showed Simmons executing a solid snap, utilizing his quick feet for a smooth pass set. As the edge rusher closed in, he successfully landed his hands but needs to develop more force in his strikes. While his strong anchor and core strength are assets, he must adapt to the NFL by delivering more impactful punches.

As the competition heats up, Simmons will be called upon to utilize his independent hands more frequently, which he demonstrated successfully during his college career. However, the development of a decisive power shot will be pivotal for his success as training camp progresses.

Projecting Simmons’ Future

Currently, the Chiefs have brought in Jaylon Moore from the San Francisco 49ers, who is earmarked to be the starting left tackle for 2025. Although Moore didn’t serve as a full-time starter in San Francisco, his film displays an ascending player capable of filling in capably as Simmons continues his recovery.

The Chiefs might handle Simmons’ progression similarly to how they managed Patrick Mahomes during his rookie season in 2017. If Simmons is in prime condition by midseason and the line encounters struggles, the coaching staff may not hesitate to give him an opportunity.

Acquiring a versatile player like Moore provides the Chiefs with much-needed flexibility. If challenges arise in various positions along the offensive line, they can pivot Moore to a different role while gradually bringing Simmons into the mix at left tackle.

Scenarios for the 2025 Season

During training camp, there will be competition for positions, notably between Kingsley Suamataia and Mike Caliendo at left guard, with uncertainty surrounding right tackle Jawaan Taylor. As the 2025 season progresses, various factors could lead to shifting Moore to bolster other positions while giving Simmons a chance to step in as the left tackle.

The ideal situation would be for the offensive line to hold firm throughout the season, allowing Simmons to debut as a starting tackle in 2026. However, the unpredictability of the NFL landscape means that anything can happen.

Simmons possesses a wealth of talent, and if his knee recovers well, he could turn out to be a significant draft steal for the Chiefs. Should the need arise for his capabilities later in the season, the organization will likely recognize the opportunity to implement him into the lineup.

Conclusion

The selection of Josh Simmons by the Kansas City Chiefs adds depth and potential to their offensive line. With a careful approach that prioritizes his recovery and skill development, Simmons could become a cornerstone player for the Chiefs in the near future.

With the right guidance and support, there’s a great chance that Simmons will evolve into a key contributor as he embarks on his professional career. The journey may start slow, but for a talent like him, the future looks promising! 🌟