Kansas City Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons has dealt with a bulging disc in his back since mid-August, keeping him out of the first five games. Simmons returned to practice last week in a limited capacity, suggesting he may be ready to play in the near future. However, the former first-round pick was listed as a non-participant in Wednesday’s practice due to the aforementioned back injury and a non-injury related/personal matter. He may not be available for Week 7 against the Seahawks on Sunday Night Football.
The Kansas City Chiefs reveal the fate of ex-1st-round pick who hasn’t played
During Thursday’s press conference, Chiefs’ head athletic trainer and Vice President of Sports Medicine and Performance, Rick Burkholder, told the media that Josh Simmons will be placed on injured reserve, as reported by Matt McMullen of the team’s website. Burkholder also added that Simmons first reported left calf discomfort on August 17 and could not push off on his leg, the same leg on which he tore his patellar tendon in 2024. An MRI showed a bulging disc, which is higher up than expected for an offensive lineman.
Josh Simmons consulted with a renowned spine specialist in California for a second opinion. The specialist recommended rehab, not surgery, with the plan to do an MRI in the future. Simmons progressed, and the MRI showed the disc had improved, while he continued to consult with the spine specialist and team doctors regularly. However, the medical staff believes that his recovery has plateaued (slowed down), and he is not ready to be cleared.
After consulting with his family, agent, front office, and team doctors, they agreed to place Simmons on injured reserve, giving him extra time to recover. He will continue to focus on rehab and will not undergo surgery. He can return as early as Week 11 against the Cardinals.
The Chiefs will place Josh Simmons on IR. Here’s Rick Burkholder https://t.co/TvURgoPbDf
— Sam McDowell (@SamMcDowell11) October 22, 2026
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