The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a major challenge on offense as injuries to their offensive tackles threaten to complicate their preparations for the remainder of the 2026 NFL season. Despite maintaining their winning form, the defending contenders must manage personnel uncertainty at a position essential to protecting the quarterback and keeping the offense productive.
The biggest concern involves the health of Josh Simmons and Jaylon Moore, who have both dealt with injuries that have affected the team’s options at tackle. Simmons has been recovering from a bulging disk in his lower back, while Moore entered the NFL’s concussion protocol after leaving Kansas City’s recent victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Their availability remains an important consideration as the Chiefs prepare for their next matchup.
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Offensive tackle Josh Simmons (71) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Simmons’ absence has forced Kansas City to adjust its offensive line combinations throughout the season. The 2025 first-round pick missed the opening games while recovering from his back injury before returning to limited practice in October. Although that development offered encouragement, the coaching staff has emphasized a gradual approach to his recovery, leaving questions about when he can resume playing.
Meanwhile, Moore’s concussion concern created another problem after he was ruled out of the Chargers game. Joshua Ezeudu stepped in to replace him, requiring the Chiefs to rely on another option while managing the absence of their starting left tackle. Although the replacements have helped keep the offense functioning, repeated lineup changes can challenge communication and consistency against stronger defensive fronts.
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Offensive tackle Josh Simmons (71) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Kansas City is facing a major issue on offense after Week 6 this season. This is detailed more in an analysis by Nate Taylor for ESPN.
Biggest issue on offense: Offensive tackle health
The Chiefs have done an admirable job protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, especially since left tackle Josh Simmons, their 2025 first-round pick, has been out because of a bulging disk in his lower back. Coach Andy Reid suggested Simmons won’t be ready for Sunday’s showdown against the Seahawks. Plus, right tackle Jaylon Moore sustained a concussion against the Chargers. Reid might have to continue altering the Chiefs’ playbook if undrafted rookies Kahlil Benson (left tackle) and Joshua Ezeudu (right tackle) are the starters.
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Biggest issue on offense: Offensive tackle health
The Chiefs have done an admirable job protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, especially since left tackle Josh Simmons, their 2025 first-round pick, has been out because of a bulging disk in his lower back. Coach Andy Reid suggested Simmons won’t be ready for Sunday’s showdown against the Seahawks. Plus, right tackle Jaylon Moore sustained a concussion against the Chargers. Reid might have to continue altering the Chiefs’ playbook if undrafted rookies Kahlil Benson (left tackle) and Joshua Ezeudu (right tackle) are the starters.
Kansas City has benefited from the adaptability of its remaining linemen, including undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson, who has filled in at left tackle during Simmons’ absence. His performance has given the coaching staff another option, particularly in the running game, but the team must continue evaluating its combinations as injured players work toward returning. Protecting the quarterback and maintaining effective blocking assignments will remain priorities.
Ultimately, the Chiefs’ offensive tackle situation presents a significant test of their depth and preparation. Getting Simmons and Moore healthy would provide greater stability, but Kansas City cannot afford to depend entirely on their immediate return. Until the lineup settles, the team’s ability to adjust protection schemes and maximize its available personnel could determine how consistently its offense performs against increasingly demanding competition.
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