Chiefs place left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve, leaving position in flux

Kansas City placed rookie left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve after medical staff diagnosed a herniated, bulging disc in his back. Simmons, who missed four games after leaving the team before a Detroit Lions matchup last season, had been expected to become the franchise’s long-term solution at left tackle, a position that has seen 11 different starters since the departure of Eric Fisher in 2021. The team’s treatment and return-to-play protocol did not yield the anticipated progress, leading to the season-ending designation. In Simmons’ absence, the Chiefs have turned to backup Kahlil Benson, who will start against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday. Benson’s performance will be closely watched as the club seeks stability on the offensive line.