Questions at Left Tackle Dominate Chiefs Training Camp

Can Simmons Secure the Blindside for Mahomes?

Chiefs Training Camp Focuses on Rookie Tackle

The Kansas City Chiefs placed their hopes on rookie Josh Simmons from Ohio State to solidify their left tackle position. Selected in the first round of the 2025 draft, Simmons possesses the potential to be a "difference maker," according to Chiefs general manager Brett Veach.

“When he's healthy with the tape he had early on last year before the injury, it puts him up there [as] a future starter and difference maker at left tackle,” said Veach.

Despite tearing his patella tendon during his final season with the Buckeyes, the Chiefs were convinced that Simmons’ pre-injury performance demonstrated his potential for success.

High Stakes in Training Camp

The pressure is on Simmons as the left tackle position emerges as a key storyline in training camp and preseason. Analysts at PFSN draw comparisons between Simmons and star tackle Trent Williams, highlighting his raw talent despite falling to the end of Round 1 due to injury concerns.

“He returned to full participation by the end of OTAs, an encouraging step that puts him firmly in the mix to start Week 1," wrote PFSN. “The urgency is real. Even though Kansas City ranked well in pass block win rate and handled blitzes efficiently, left tackle was a weak link that defenses exploited, most notably in the Super Bowl.”

PFSN emphasizes that while Mahomes’ quick release mitigated some issues, consistent blindside protection is crucial for the Chiefs' success. Adding further complexity, right tackle Jawaan Taylor begins training camp on the PUP list as he recovers from knee surgery.

The spotlight falls heavily on Simmons, who will need to stay healthy and prove his worth to potentially secure the long-term solution at one of the game's most vital positions.