For weeks, Kansas City Chiefs fans have been left to speculate about the whereabouts of rookie first-round pick Josh Simmons — a player whose preseason buzz had many excited about his impact on the offensive line. But until now, the team had offered little more than “personal reasons” to explain his absence from practice and game-day lineups.

That changed Thursday when head coach Andy Reid finally addressed the situation during his weekly press conference. In a rare public comment about a player’s personal matters, Reid revealed that Simmons has been away from the team to “take care of his family.”

“Josh is doing what he needs to do right now,” Reid said firmly. “We’ve been in contact with him. He’s handling some things with his family, and we’re giving him the space and support he needs.”

🔇 Weeks of Silence, Mounting Speculation

Simmons, the 2025 first-round pick out of Alabama, had been absent from team activities since late September. While the Chiefs initially cited “personal reasons,” the extended nature of his absence led to growing concern among fans and media alike.

Rumors swirled — from injury speculation to contract issues — but Thursday’s update from Reid provided a clearer, if still limited, picture.

“He’s not on the non-football injury list,” Reid clarified. “And that’s because we expect him back. When exactly, we’re still working through.”

Reid emphasized that Simmons remains in “good standing” with the team and reiterated that the situation was not disciplinary.

👪 “Taking Care of His Family” — What We Know

While the team has chosen to keep the specific nature of the family matter private — out of respect for Simmons and his loved ones — the tone of Reid’s comments made one thing clear: this is personal, and it’s serious.

Players, too, have been largely silent out of respect, but several teammates offered brief words of support following Reid’s remarks.

“Josh is one of us,” said veteran center Creed Humphrey. “Whatever he’s going through, we’ve got his back. Family always comes first.”

Defensive tackle Chris Jones added:

“I’d want the same support if it were me. We’re praying for him.”

Sources close to the team suggest Simmons has remained in communication with coaching staff and position coaches, though he has not attended any in-person practices or meetings since his departure.

📉 Impact on the Field

Simmons’ absence has left a noticeable gap in the Chiefs’ offensive line rotation. Though he was not yet a full-time starter, Simmons had been earning increased reps during training camp and was expected to serve as a swing tackle with starting potential by midseason.

“He’s a big body, great technique, quick learner,” said offensive line coach Andy Heck earlier this year. “We saw him growing every week.”

In his absence, Kansas City has leaned more heavily on veteran depth, with Lucas Niang and Wanya Morris splitting reps. So far, the line has held up well, but the long-term plan clearly included Simmons.

His return timeline remains unknown, and it is unlikely he will suit up for Monday night’s game against the Washington Commanders, according to Reid.

“We’re not rushing him,” Reid said. “Football can wait.”

🔁 Roster Implications

Interestingly, despite Simmons missing multiple weeks, the Chiefs have not placed him on the non-football injury (NFI) list, which would allow the team to replace him on the active roster temporarily.

That decision, insiders say, signals two things:

1. The Chiefs expect him back this season

2. They want to avoid any implications that the issue is permanent or injury-related

The team has made minor practice squad adjustments to account for depth, but has shown confidence in riding out the situation with the current roster.

🧠 Mental Health and Family First

Reid’s tone — measured, supportive, and personal — reflects a growing trend in the NFL: prioritizing players’ mental health and family needs just as much as physical health.

In the past, prolonged absences without clear injury would often lead to speculation or even public criticism. But recent years have shifted the conversation.

“This is life,” Reid said. “These are young men with lives beyond football. And sometimes, that has to come first. We understand that.”

Chiefs GM Brett Veach echoed similar sentiments in a written statement following Reid’s press conference:

“Josh Simmons is a valued member of this organization. We support him fully and look forward to welcoming him back when the time is right.”

🗣 Fans React with Support

The Chiefs Kingdom responded swiftly and largely with compassion following Reid’s comments.

On social media, hashtags like #WeGotYouJosh and #FamilyFirst began trending regionally, with fans sending messages of encouragement, photos of signs at Arrowhead Stadium, and even starting a “Welcome Back” banner initiative for whenever Simmons returns.

“Football is just a game. Life is real,” tweeted one user. “Take all the time you need, Josh.”

Another wrote:

“Wishing strength and love to the Simmons family. Chiefs fans have your back.”

👶 A Rookie Year Unlike Any Other

It’s rare for a rookie season to begin with so much promise and then take such an unexpected turn. But Simmons, a former All-American and national champion at Alabama, has already shown maturity beyond his years.

Known for his discipline, quiet leadership, and team-first mindset, Simmons has earned the respect of both coaches and teammates, even in his absence.

“He may not be on the field,” one staff member said, “but he’s still part of this team’s heart.”

🔚 What Comes Next?

Coach Reid declined to give a specific return date but left the door open:

“Whenever he’s ready — tomorrow, next week, whenever — we’ll be here.”

For now, the Chiefs continue preparing for their Monday Night Football showdown against the Commanders. Simmons’ locker remains untouched at team facilities, a symbolic gesture that he remains a part of the team — just temporarily apart from it.

And as the season rolls on, so too does the support behind one of Kansas City’s most promising young stars.