'Just Needs More Time to Heal': Chiefs Top Trainer Says Josh Simmons Will Be Placed on IR
The move gives the rookie left tackle more time to recover after doctors said his back injury had stalled in rehab and surgery is not recommended.
- On Thursday, the Kansas City Chiefs placed offensive tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve due to a bulging herniated disc, sidelining the 2025 first-round draft pick for at least four games.
- Head athletic trainer Rick Burkholder reported that Simmons' rehabilitation has "plateaued" despite diligent efforts; the 23-year-old does not require surgery but needs more time to regain full function.
- An MRI revealed a bulging disc "higher up than we normally see," according to Burkholder, while the team clarified Simmons' recent personal absence was to consult family regarding next steps.
- Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson will continue starting at left tackle in Simmons' absence, with the veteran eligible to return Week 11 against the Arizona Cardinals on November 22, 2026.
- Since being drafted, Simmons has appeared in only eight of 22 possible games due to injuries and personal matters, creating continued uncertainty about his long-term availability.
34 Articles
34 Articles
Chiefs place Josh Simmons on IR, raising questions about his entire future in the NFL - NEW YORK TIMES POST
The Kansas City Chiefs are placing left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve, the team announced. But the story runs deeper than a Super Bowl contender losing its starting left tackle for, most likely, the remainder of the season. On Thursday, Chiefs Vice President of Sports Medicine and Performance Rich Burkholder told reporters that Simmons [...]
Major Blow for Chiefs as Josh Simmons Put On IR Over Bulging Disc Concerns
Kansas City Chiefs were optimistic about offensive tackle Josh Simmons’ health last week. After not practicing with the team since mid-August, Simmons participated on a limited basis during the week leading up to the Los Angeles Chargers game. At the same time, head coach Andy Reid said that the team would gradually increase his workload […]
The Toronto Star
Chiefs place left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve with a bulging disk in his lower back
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Kansas City Chiefs placed Josh Simmons on injured reserve because of a bulging disk in his lower back Thursday, guaranteeing their starting left tackle will be out at least four more weeks after having…
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