Chiefs place offensive tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve after meeting dispute

Kansas City placed second-year offensive tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve on Thursday after a reported dispute with head coach Andy Reid during a team meeting. Sources cited by NFL Network said Reid asked Simmons to lower his feet, which were propped up in the meeting room, and Simmons replied that he was experiencing back and hip pain. Reid then directed him to seek treatment from the athletic trainers.

Quarterback Patrick Mahomes also told Simmons he should leave the meeting, after which Simmons exited the room and later apologized to Reid and his teammates.

Team officials indicated the roster move was driven by Simmons' health issues. The 2025 first-round pick missed his rookie season with a fractured wrist and has been unable to play in 2026 due to a bulging disc in his back. The injured-reserve designation will keep him out at least until Week 11.

Chiefs trainer Rick Burkholder said Simmons had been working closely with staff and had reached a point where he could practice in a limited capacity, but his rehabilitation had plateaued and he was not yet ready for competition. Kansas City has been using undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson as the starting left tackle, a situation expected to continue for several weeks.