Andy Reid reveals Chiefs LT Josh Simmons dealing with bulging disc in back but is progressing, shouldn't need surgery

In the early stages of the 2026 NFL season, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid disclosed that left tackle Josh Simmons has been grappling with a bulging disc in his lower back. This injury has limited Simmons' leg strength, impacting his performance. Despite the setback, Simmons has shown signs of improvement and, according to Reid, he is on track to avoid surgery.

Reid revealed that Simmons has been an integral part of the team, participating daily in practices. The coaching staff has managed without placing Simmons on injured reserve, which would have kept him out for a minimum of four games. Instead, the Chiefs have opted for other strategies to cope. One of those key strategies involves 23-year-old rookie Kahlil Benson, who has stepped into Simmons' role admirably.

Benson, an undrafted free agent from Indiana, has been instrumental in protecting Patrick Mahomes, the team's quarterback, who was recovering from a torn ACL earlier in the season. Benson's performance has been noteworthy, even though he has conceded three pressures in each of his appearances and faced one penalty during the Chiefs' recent games.

PFF data indicates that Mahomes ranks first in the NFL in EPA per dropback (+0.34) when under pressure, which has helped the team maintain a 3-0 record. Nonetheless, Simmons' return is greatly anticipated, especially after he missed multiple games last year due to a private family matter and another five games after wrist surgery.

The timeline for his recovery remains uncertain, but Reid remains optimistic, stating that he believes Simmons' condition will not necessitate surgery. The Chiefs have a bye week coming up in Week 5 before facing the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 6.