Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Chiefs Make Roster Move After Josh Simmons Development

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 24, 2025 10:36 PM ET

Josh Simmons watched on as Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs secured their fourth win of the 2025 NFL season, jumping to 4-3 after a 31-0 shutout win over Geno Smith and the Las Vegas Raiders. Now, the Chiefs will look for a third consecutive win in Week 8, hosting Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders.

Simmons started his rookie season strong, holding down the left tackle spot for the first six games. However, ahead of the win over the Raiders, he missed the entire week of practice due to personal reasons. He was absent again leading up to the Commanders matchup, making it likely he’ll remain out. And in Simmons’ absence, the Chiefs are expected to bring back a familiar face.

Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Josh Simmons remains away from the teamDenny Medley-Imagn Images

Esa Pole, after two seasons in college with Washington State, signed with Kansas City after going undrafted in 2025. But he was waived as part of final roster cuts, before signing with the New York Jets one day later. Pole's tenure in New York lasted nearly two months before he was released on Thursday.

On Friday, A to Z Sports’ Charles Goldman reported that Pole has expressed interest in returning to the Chiefs. The offensive tackle flew to Kansas City on Friday night and is expected to sign to the practice squad.

"Despite interest from other clubs, Pole is expected to re-sign with Kansas City on the practice squad," Goldman wrote. "A source with direct knowledge of the situation has told A to Z Sports that Pole is flying into Kansas City on Friday evening. If all goes well and as planned on Saturday, he’ll sign to the practice squad. The Chiefs, of course, have an open space on the practice squad after signing CB Kevin Knowles to the 53-man roster."

Source: OT Esa Pole will be en route to Kansas City this evening. If all goes well, he'll be on the Chiefs' practice squad tomorrow. https://t.co/YLKFQ6fvHa pic.twitter.com/VDQDP9ET5V
— Charles Goldman (@goldmctNFL) October 24, 2025