The Kansas City Chiefs made a significant move in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons with the final pick of the first round, No. 32 overall. This strategic decision comes after the Chiefs swapped their original pick with the Philadelphia Eagles, a trade that also netted Kansas City a valuable fifth-round selection.
After a season that highlighted the need for offensive line reinforcements, particularly following their Super Bowl appearance, the Chiefs were quick to act on their priority. Simmons, a 6-foot-5, 317-pound lineman, is seen as a promising addition to the roster, especially with his experience and accolades from his college career.
Simmons began his collegiate journey at San Diego State, where he started all 13 games at right tackle during the 2022 season. His performance caught the attention of scouts, leading to his transfer to Ohio State, where he transitioned to left tackle. During his time with the Buckeyes, he earned an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection in 2024, despite being limited to just six games due to a torn patellar tendon suffered in a close game against Oregon.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid expressed confidence in Simmons, noting, "We felt he was a phenomenal athlete... would have been a higher pick if he had not been hurt." Reid acknowledged that Simmons could have been a top-five or top-ten pick had he remained healthy throughout his college career. "He will definitely be ready for training camp," Reid assured, hinting at Simmons' recovery progress.
In the Chiefs' scouting reports, Simmons has been lauded for his athleticism and footwork, particularly his ability to handle speed rushers and adapt to various blocking schemes. His performance at Ohio State's pro day, where he posted 33 bench press reps, showcased his strength and conditioning, drawing comparisons to some of the top linemen in the draft.
"Simmons explodes out of his stance in pass protection and plays with knee-bend, balance, and calmness to govern his movements," noted Dane Brugler in his draft guide. This assessment underscores Simmons' potential as a long-term left tackle in the NFL, despite some concerns about his arm length, which was measured at 33 inches at the combine and 34 1/8 inches at his pro day.
Looking at Simmons' strengths, he is noted for his fluid movement, ability to land first contact, and constant foot fire that keeps him ready to react to pass rush moves. However, some weaknesses have been identified, including a lack of pop behind his punches and inconsistency when handling twists or games from defensive linemen.
As the Chiefs prepare for the 2025 season, Simmons' addition is seen as a crucial step in strengthening their offensive line, a position that faced scrutiny during their Super Bowl run. Reid's strategy to bolster the trenches reflects a commitment to protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who faced significant pressure in the championship game.
The Chiefs' front office is optimistic about Simmons' ability to contribute early in his career, with many analysts grading the pick favorably. "If Simmons hadn’t hurt his knee in October, he might’ve been a top-10 pick in this draft," commented Nick Baumgardner, highlighting the potential value Kansas City secured at the bottom of the first round.
With the Chiefs' selection of Simmons, the franchise aims to not only enhance their offensive line but also ensure that they remain competitive in the ever-challenging landscape of the NFL. The upcoming rookie minicamp will be a crucial period for Simmons as he begins to integrate into the team and showcase his recovery from injury.
As the 2025 NFL Draft continues, the Chiefs’ decision to invest in a player with Simmons’ upside reflects their long-term vision for the franchise. Fans will be eager to see how Simmons develops in training camp and whether he can secure a starting role in the lineup. With the Chiefs’ history of finding hidden gems in the draft, Simmons could very well be the next success story in Kansas City.
The excitement surrounding Simmons is palpable, and as he prepares to don the red and gold of the Chiefs, the hope is that he will become a cornerstone of the offensive line for years to come. The Chiefs are looking forward to seeing Simmons not only contribute in the immediate future but also evolve into a key player as they chase another Super Bowl title.
In summary, the Chiefs' selection of Josh Simmons marks a pivotal moment in their draft strategy, addressing a critical need on the offensive line while also taking a chance on a player with significant potential. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Simmons as he embarks on his professional career in the NFL.
