Simmons Will Miss Chiefs Game Against Colts
Kansas City tackle Josh Simmons is ruled out for Sunday’s matchup due to a back injury.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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The Kansas City Chiefs will face the Indianapolis Colts on September 14, 2026, without offensive tackle Josh Simmons. Simmons has been sidelined for the upcoming contest due to a back injury.
Why it matters
The absence of the former first-round pick forces a lineup change for Kansas City during a critical early-season game. Kahlil Benson will step in to start at the left tackle position to protect the quarterback.
Josh Simmons was selected 32nd overall in the 2025 NFL draft and appeared in eight games during his rookie season. The upcoming game at Arrowhead Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET.
The players
Josh Simmons
He is an offensive tackle drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs who has struggled with recurring injury issues since entering the league.
Kahlil Benson
He is an offensive lineman who will start at left tackle for the Chiefs in the upcoming game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Kansas City Chiefs
This is a professional football franchise based in Kansas City that competes in the National Football League.
Indianapolis Colts
This is a professional football team based in Indianapolis that competes in the National Football League.
The details
Kahlil Benson is set to take over starting duties at left tackle in place of the injured Simmons. The team has managed Simmons' health concerns throughout a career marked by multiple injuries, including a wrist fracture in November 2025 and a knee injury in October 2024.
Timeline
October 2024: Simmons suffered a knee injury against Oregon.
2025 NFL draft: Chiefs selected Simmons as the 32nd overall pick.
November 2025: Simmons suffered a wrist injury against the Dallas Cowboys.
September 14, 2026: The Chiefs play the Indianapolis Colts.
Season Trajectory
This roster adjustment forces the coaching staff to test depth at a key offensive position early in the season. The performance of the backup unit will be critical in maintaining the team's standing as they navigate a challenging schedule.
Kahlil Benson will take over the primary left tackle snaps for the duration of the contest against the Colts. The loss of a starting-caliber blindside protector may impact the team's passing efficiency and protection schemes.
The takeaway
Maintaining offensive line continuity is essential for protecting quarterbacks throughout the grueling NFL season. Teams that successfully develop depth behind high-round draft picks often prove more resilient during inevitable injury stretches.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit the Kansas City Football section.
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Do you believe NFL teams should prioritize injury history over raw talent during the draft?
