Skip to main content
Back to brief

Sports · October 22, 2026

Chiefs get terrible Josh Simmons news as back injury recovery has 'plateaued'

6 sources →

The Kansas City Chiefs are placing starting left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve due to a persistent back injury. Simmons, a 2025 first-round pick, has been sidelined all season with a bulging disc. Chiefs head trainer Rick Burkholder reported that while Simmons' rehabilitation has plateaued, the injury does not currently require surgery. Simmons is ineligible to return to the active roster until Week 11. Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson is expected to continue starting in his absence.

Read the original coverage

Reported by multiple outlets

  • The Kansas City Chiefs are placing left tackle Josh Simmons on injured reserve.
  • Simmons has a back injury specifically identified as a bulging disc.
  • Simmons' rehabilitation progress has plateaued.
  • Simmons has not played yet during the 2026 season.
  • Simmons will be ineligible to return until at least Week 11.
  • The injury does not require surgery at this time.

Reported by only some outlets

  • Simmons was also listed on the injury report for 'personal reasons' because he took time off after the IR decision.
  • Simmons was the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
  • Simmons missed time in his rookie season due to personal reasons and a wrist injury.
  • Kahlil Benson has allowed 12 pressures through the first five games of the season.
  • The Kansas City Chiefs are currently one of three undefeated teams.

CadNews does not determine absolute truth or endorse political viewpoints. It compares publicly available reporting, identifies shared facts, highlights framing differences, and flags uncertainty.