The Kansas City Chiefs selected Josh Simmons with the No. 32 overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. The offensive tackle from Ohio State joined a franchise chasing a historic three-peat. Rookies face enormous pressure adapting to NFL life while protecting Patrick Mahomes.
The promising lineman suddenly vanished without explanation, and nobody knows when he’s coming back.
Chiefs Rookie Josh Simmons Disappears During Critical Season
Josh Simmons stopped showing up to the Chiefs facility weeks ago. The team placed him on the reserve/non-football illness list on October 5. Head coach Andy Reid declined to provide details about the absence.
#Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes on Josh Simmons. #ChiefsKingdom @KSHB41 pic.twitter.com/U3AJYUBCRS
— Nick Jacobs (@Jacobs71) October 15, 2025
The timing couldn’t be worse for Kansas City. The Chiefs sit at 6-0 and chase their third consecutive Super Bowl title. Every roster spot matters when you’re making history. Simmons played sparingly as a rookie but represented valuable depth along the offensive line.
ESPN’s Nate Taylor called the situation “extremely serious” during a recent report. Taylor said he felt fearful about whatever caused Simmons to leave. The reporter couldn’t imagine what the rookie faces right now.
Patrick Mahomes addressed the situation with care and concern. The three-time Super Bowl MVP said he’s praying for Simmons. Mahomes refused to share specifics out of respect for privacy. The quarterback’s tone suggested something deeply personal affects his teammate.
Reid echoed similar sentiments when asked about a timeline. “I don’t have that answer,” the coach said. The Chiefs organization keeps the matter completely private. There are no leaks, no speculation, just support for a player dealing with something difficult.
Simmons starred at Ohio State before entering the draft. The 6-foot-5, 310-pound tackle was projected as a future starter. Kansas City used premium draft capital to secure him, showing its belief in his long-term potential.
The absence extends beyond football concerns. Simmons’ social media went silent around the same time. Friends and family haven’t provided updates publicly. The total radio silence adds to the mystery surrounding his whereabouts.
NFL Fans Express Worry About Josh Simmons’ Well-Being
Social media filled with concern when news of Simmons’ extended absence spread. Chiefs fans especially worried about the young player’s situation.
One fan wrote, “Feels like something is going on with Simmons himself, hope he is doing ok.” The comment captured the supportive tone most fans adopted.
A second added, “Seems pretty clear this is either a serious family issue likely having to do with health, or a serious legal matter.” Fans recognized the gravity without knowing specifics.
A third noted, “Doesn’t seem like it’s a minor issue.” The prolonged absence and team silence suggested something significant.
A fourth just assumed the worst, “I am telling you Josh has major mental issues.”
A fifth echoed, “I heard he was smoking something got paranoid and skipped town.”
The Chiefs community rallied around Simmons despite limited information. Fans respect his privacy while hoping for positive news. The organization’s handling of the situation demonstrates how seriously they take player welfare.
Kansas City continues preparing for their remaining schedule without knowing when Simmons returns. The focus shifts to supporting a teammate during a difficult personal situation rather than football concerns.
