Josh Simmons arrived in Kansas City as the Chiefs' first-round pick in 2025, carrying the size and potential coveted in a left tackle. At well over 300 pounds and just starting his NFL journey, he embodied the promise of a long-term anchor on the offensive line. Yet, his rookie year taught a harsh lesson: size alone isn't enough when durability is at stake.
Battling through nagging injuries and the physical toll of his frame, Simmons struggled to stay healthy and effective throughout the season. The grueling nature of the NFL exposed the challenges his body faced carrying that much weight, often limiting his ability to recover between snaps and maintain top performance as the season progressed.
In response, Simmons made a striking offseason decision. By early June 2026, he had shed 20-25 pounds, bringing his playing weight down to roughly 285 to 290 pounds. This transformation aims to enhance his durability without sacrificing the power and presence needed at such a critical position. Simmons plans to gradually add controlled, functional mass back on before the 2026 season but wants to avoid the pitfalls of excess bulk that hampered him as a rookie.
This change is about more than just the scale--it's a calculated move by a 22-year-old athlete to adapt his body for the demands of an NFL season. By trimming down, Simmons hopes to reduce strain on his joints and improve his overall stamina, allowing him to better withstand the grind of 17 regular-season games and a playoff push.
The Chiefs' left tackle situation remains uncertain, emphasizing the importance of Simmons' development. The roster includes veterans like Jaylon Moore and young talents such as Wanya Morris and Kingsley Suamataia, who has alternated between guard and tackle. Additions like Matt Waletzko and Ethan Driskell reinforce depth, but none yet have the pedigree or promise that Simmons holds as the franchise's top pick for this position.
General Manager Brett Veach and Head Coach Andy Reid are betting on Simmons to be the solution long-term. Their limited salary cap space, sitting at approximately $3.63 million as of mid-2026, restricts their ability to pursue high-profile free-agent tackles. The path forward leans heavily on developing current roster players, with Simmons the clear centerpiece given his first-round status and physical gifts.
Losing weight carries risks for a lineman. The balance between power and agility is fragile, and shedding mass can sometimes diminish the ability to anchor against powerful pass rushers. However, Simmons' rookie season proved that without the ability to stay on the field and maintain conditioning, power alone is insufficient. The hope is his lighter frame will bring improved lateral quickness and better overall mobility, critical in Kansas City's offense which relies heavily on play-action passing and bootlegs where offensive linemen must reach and seal defenders at the second level.
The real test lies in his ability to not just perform but endure. Simmons must prove he can handle the physical demands from the first snap of training camp through the final drives of December divisional battles. That challenge includes maintaining effectiveness against elite edge rushers and absorbing the toll of sustained contact, all while walking off the field healthy.
Kansas City boasts a roster built to contend for another Super Bowl. With Patrick Mahomes in his prime and Travis Kelce entering his 14th NFL season, the offense has star power at skill positions. Steve Spagnuolo's deep defensive line stabilizes the other side of the ball. But the offensive line is the fulcrum on which everything pivots -- reliable protection and run blocking are essential to sustaining championship aspirations.
Simmons is keenly aware of this responsibility. His commitment to transforming his body reflects a maturity and drive to meet the Chiefs' lofty expectations. As training camp approaches, all eyes will be on whether a lighter, more agile Josh Simmons can stay healthy, secure the left tackle spot, and solidify the foundation for Kansas City's offense in 2026 and beyond.
The pressure is on, but Simmons' offseason transformation signals a player ready to adapt and endure, betting that less weight means more resilience--and ultimately, more success on the field.