Kansas City’s offensive line just got a significant update, with head coach Andy Reid confirming that Josh Simmons is finally returning to practice today. This is huge for the Chiefs ahead of Week 6, but Reid’s tone was all about caution.
“If You Can Get Back In At All”: Reid’s Stark Reality Check
Simmons has been sidelined for weeks, battling a bulging disc in his lower back that was seriously messing with his leg strength. Even though the Chiefs didn’t put him on Injured Reserve, with the team hoping for a sooner return, the recovery has clearly been a grind. Reid told reporters, “Yeah, just gonna ease him back in.” He followed up, “Ease him into practice, so he’s got practice, but on a limited basis.” That sounds less like “full speed ahead” and more like “walking on eggshells.” Reid straight up admitted he hasn’t even thought about a game return timetable, dropping a serious truth bomb: “We start dealing with backs; got to ease it back in if you can get back in at all.” That’s a statement that tells you everything about the uncertainty surrounding his recovery.
From Planned Starter to “Adds Depth”? The OL Picture
While Simmons has been recovering, undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson has been holding down the left tackle spot, and apparently, he’s been doing “well.” That’s a good sign for the team, no doubt. Simmons was initially a planned starter on that offensive line, but now his return is being framed as “adding depth.” That’s a big shift in expectations for a guy who was supposed to be a core piece protecting the QB. Simmons is clearly on the road to recovery, but the path back to the starting lineup, or even full game action, looks anything but clear right now.
So, Simmons is taking the first step back onto the field. It’s a massive moment for him, obviously wanting to get back out there for his team. But with Reid’s extreme caution, Chiefs fans are gonna be holding their breath to see how quickly he can ramp up, or if that “if you can get back in at all” quote becomes a harsh reality for their planned starter as Week 6 approaches.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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