On Thursday, Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid gave his most definitive statement about the absence of rookie Left Tackle Josh Simmons. Does this mean he’s closer to a return to the team?
Head Coach Andy Reid has always deferred to caution when commenting on injuries and potential roster moves; however, with First Round Pick Josh Simmons likely to miss his third straight game on Monday when the Chiefs host the Washington Commanders.
Reid made it clear that Simmons was dealing with a family matter and that signs were moving in the right direction, suggesting the matter was nearing a happy conclusion for all parties. Still, the secrecy behind his absence needs to be respected.
Fortunately, the Chiefs have Jaylon Moore to man the left side of the offensive line. Further, the play of left guard Kingsley Suamataia hasn’t dropped off at all with Simmons out of the lineup. Before his departure, both players were improving on the field.
In other news, the New York Jets released former Chiefs tackle Esa Pole on Thursday. The Chiefs had hoped to put him on the practice squad, but the AFC East team claimed him after Kansas City made its final roster cuts.
Pole would have to clear waivers unless the Chiefs claim him outright. If they do, a corresponding roster decision would need to be made before playing him on the 53-man roster. Pole was a training camp standout, and the Chiefs rolled the dice that he would not be claimed, but that didn’t happen.
Now they get a second chance; should he clear waivers, they can at least use the one opening on their practice squad.
