Willie Roaf Suggests Right Tackle Switch for Josh Simmons
The Hall of Famer believes a position change would better serve the unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you believe professional athletes have a responsibility to play through pain for their team?
Hall of Fame offensive lineman Willie Roaf has recommended that Josh Simmons shift to right tackle upon his return from a back injury. Roaf cited concerns regarding Simmons being undersized for the left tackle position.
Why it matters
Roaf emphasized the necessity of consistent durability at left tackle to protect Patrick Mahomes as the Chiefs look to maintain their 5-0 start. He argues that the adjustment would provide a more suitable role for Simmons given his physical profile.
Willie Roaf earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and 9 All-Pro honors during a 13-year NFL career. His Kansas City Chiefs currently hold an undefeated 5-0 record.
The players
Willie Roaf
He is an 11-time Pro Bowler and Pro Football Hall of Fame offensive lineman who played for the Chiefs.
Josh Simmons
He is a Kansas City Chiefs player who recently returned to practice after recovering from a back injury.
Patrick Mahomes
He is the starting quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs.
The details
Simmons, who recently returned to practice after suffering a bulging disc in training camp, has been flagged by Roaf as an improper fit for the left side of the line. The Hall of Famer suggests a move to right tackle is a strategic necessity for the team.
Timeline
Willie Roaf played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 2002 to 2005.
Willie Roaf was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012.
Willie Roaf discussed Josh Simmons on Arrowhead Allies in October 2026.
Season Trajectory
Roaf leverages his status as an inductee from the 2012 Pro Football Hall of Fame class to provide expert critique on modern roster management. This input arrives as the 5-0 Chiefs refine their offensive line depth to protect their early-season momentum.
A position move for Simmons would necessitate a reshuffling of the current offensive line rotation for the upcoming games. This change directly impacts the protection scheme for the Chiefs' passing attack as the team aims to extend its undefeated streak.
The takeaway
Roaf emphasizes that longevity and performance are predicated on aligning players with positions that maximize their specific physical frames. Fans should monitor upcoming injury reports and depth chart updates to see if the team implements the proposed tactical shift.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit Kansas City Football.
Live Poll
Do you believe professional athletes have a responsibility to play through pain for their team?
