Chiefs start undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson at left tackle with Josh Simmons out in opener vs Denver

Kansas City Chiefs starter left tackle Josh Simmons was absent for their Monday night opener against the Denver Broncos due to a back injury, leaving rookie Kahlil Benson to take his place at left tackle. Benson, who was signed after an impressive rookie minicamp performance, was promoted to the starting lineup despite initially being drafted undrafted.

The Chiefs inserted veteran Jaylon Moore at right tackle to replace Simmons. Despite missing safety Chamarri Conner, who is recovering from a knee injury, and linebacker Jonathon Cooper, who is on the commissioner’s exempt list, the Chiefs still fielded a strong defense with the return of three-time All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones.

Denver's defense, on the other hand, was missing linebacker Jonathon Cooper, who pleaded not guilty to multiple charges from altercations with his girlfriend in June. The Broncos also activated long snapper Mitchell Fraboni and fullback Adam Prentice from the practice squad for the game.