Former Ohio State star Josh Simmons received a major injury update from the Chiefs.

Josh Simmons, the highly-touted offensive lineman from Ohio State, has received a crucial injury update that has significant implications for both his career and the Kansas City Chiefs’ immediate future. The news comes at a pivotal moment in the young player’s transition from college football standout to a professional athlete entrusted with protecting one of the NFL’s most valuable assets: quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs, who selected Simmons with the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft despite his recovery from a torn patellar tendon, have now shared a positive development that suggests the gamble they took may soon pay off.

Simmons’ journey to this point has been anything but smooth. Known for his agility, power, and technical prowess on the field, he became a key part of Ohio State’s offensive line during his college career, consistently demonstrating the ability to handle elite defensive competition. However, in a nationally televised game against Oregon on October 12, 2024, Simmons suffered a devastating injury that threatened to derail his upward trajectory. The torn patellar tendon in his left knee was a serious blow, typically requiring a lengthy recovery time of nine to twelve months. This type of injury is notoriously difficult for offensive linemen, whose positions require explosive movement, knee bend, and lateral agility.

Despite the severity of the injury and the uncertainty surrounding his return, the Kansas City Chiefs saw enough in Simmons’ tape and character to make him their first-round draft pick. Their medical staff thoroughly evaluated the progress of his rehabilitation and were evidently encouraged by what they saw. Still, selecting an offensive tackle recovering from such an injury with a premium pick was viewed by many analysts as a bold move. The Chiefs were in need of a reliable offensive line anchor following the departure of Joe Thuney, a veteran presence who had been a cornerstone for the team’s protection schemes. In Simmons, they believed they had found a long-term solution—provided his knee could hold up.

Now, in late May 2025, with the team deep into Phase 3 of their organized team activities (OTAs), head coach Andy Reid has provided the first concrete signs that Simmons is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation. Speaking with reporters, Reid expressed optimism about Simmons’ trajectory. He noted that Simmons has already begun limited participation in team drills, something the coaching staff had not initially anticipated this early. Reid stated, “We might be able to get something out of him in the team periods in Phase 3 here, so that’s a positive; we weren’t expecting to be able to do that. He’s really done a good job with his rehab stuff — and the doctor that did his surgery did a nice job.”

This update offers a promising outlook not just for Simmons but also for the Chiefs’ broader offensive strategy. For a team looking to maintain its dominance in the AFC, the ability to rely on a young, healthy offensive tackle could be a game-changer. Simmons’ size, strength, and collegiate pedigree make him a natural fit for Kansas City’s offense. More importantly, if he is able to play at or near his pre-injury level, the Chiefs may have secured a top-tier talent at a draft discount due to injury concerns. This potential value acquisition could allow them to allocate resources elsewhere while still maintaining a formidable line.

Patrick Mahomes himself has also weighed in on Simmons’ progress. The reigning MVP and face of the franchise spoke positively about his interactions with Simmons and expressed confidence in the lineman’s future. Mahomes said, “He looks great. He’s been in the building early, staying late, doing everything you want to see from a guy in his position.” Comments like these underscore the supportive environment within the Chiefs organization and point to Simmons’ strong work ethic and determination to return better than ever.

Simmons, for his part, has maintained a low profile during his rehab, opting instead to focus on the work required to return to full strength. In a rare interview, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity and a deep desire to contribute. “I just want to attack rehab as hard as I can — that way, when training camp does come around, I can be the most help that I can possibly be,” he said. “There’s nothing I can really do to force myself into the lineup. There’s a lot of vets in here. My thing is just stay out the way and work hard. Be a helpful piece if I can.” Such humility, combined with a relentless drive to succeed, has made Simmons a favorite among team trainers and coaches alike.

Of course, there are still many steps between promising OTA reports and playing meaningful snaps in a regular-season NFL game. The Chiefs have been cautious in managing Simmons’ workload, and it is likely that they will continue to ramp him up slowly throughout the summer. There’s also the matter of competition at the left tackle position. While Simmons is the presumed future starter, the Chiefs have signed veteran Jaylon Moore to serve as insurance should Simmons require more time or experience setbacks. This move gives the team flexibility and eases the pressure on the rookie, allowing him to develop at a pace that prioritizes long-term health and effectiveness.

One of the challenges for young offensive linemen entering the NFL is the speed and complexity of the game. College players often dominate with physical tools, but the NFL requires more—technical precision, rapid processing, and the ability to adjust on the fly against elite pass rushers. Simmons will need to master the Chiefs’ playbook, build chemistry with his fellow linemen, and fine-tune his technique under the guidance of offensive line coach Andy Heck. The early signs are encouraging, but real tests lie ahead in training camp and preseason action.

Kansas City’s coaching staff, known for its developmental prowess, has a track record of bringing young talent along quickly and effectively. In Simmons, they have a player with the raw tools to excel and the mental makeup to handle adversity. That combination is rare and valuable. While there are no guarantees in professional football, especially for a player returning from a significant injury, the foundation appears to be strong. Simmons’ discipline and focus, coupled with a supportive infrastructure, make him a good bet to fulfill the potential the Chiefs saw when they handed him a first-round selection.

This situation also highlights a broader trend in the NFL: the increasing willingness of teams to invest in injured players based on projected recovery timelines and long-term upside. As medical technology and rehabilitation techniques have advanced, injuries that once derailed careers are now considered manageable setbacks. Teams with stable cultures and strong medical departments, like the Chiefs, are particularly well-positioned to take these calculated risks. Simmons is not the first player to be drafted while injured, and he certainly won’t be the last, but his case may serve as a blueprint for how to do it right.

For Simmons, the months ahead are critical. The goal is not only to be ready for training camp but to emerge as a serious contender for a starting spot. The Chiefs will not rush him; they’ve made that clear. But should he continue progressing at his current rate, the door is wide open. The team’s depth chart remains fluid, and opportunities abound for a player of Simmons’ caliber. Kansas City’s front office has made it clear they view him as a core building block, and if his health holds, he could be a fixture on their offensive line for years to come.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as Simmons’ journey unfolds. His return from injury is not just a story of physical rehabilitation, but also of mental toughness and professional growth. It’s about a young man who faced adversity and responded with grit, who was doubted and responded with work, and who now stands on the cusp of realizing a dream that once seemed uncertain. Should he succeed, his story will serve as inspiration for countless others dealing with setbacks of their own.

In the end, Josh Simmons represents more than just another draft pick or another name on a roster. He represents resilience, belief, and the power of opportunity. The Chiefs took a chance on him not because of what he was, but because of what he could become. And now, with his recovery ahead of schedule and the support of one of the league’s most stable organizations behind him, that future seems closer than ever. The latest injury update may be just one chapter in Simmons’ story, but it’s a chapter filled with hope, progress, and the promise of something special on the horizon.