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Chiefs Rookie Getting Pro Bowl-Caliber Comps
Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

The Kansas City Chiefs addressed their left tackle issue in free agency with the signing of Jaylon Moore from the San Francisco 49ers, and they doubled down on that in the NFL Draft.

Ohio State's Josh Simmons heard his name called in the first round to join an offensive line room with much to prove in 2025.

After Patrick Mahomes was sacked 47 times last season (including the playoffs), Simmons will join the movement to protect No. 15 better than he was a year ago.

We often hear draftees compared to current-day players to help people understand what type of player is coming into the building. Chiefs director of player personnel and college scouting Ryne Nutt holds Simmons' talents in the same air as a couple of stud tackles.

"In terms of years past, I would say, Josh, when he was healthy at this year, this tape, would be one of the better ones in the last few years," Nutt said. "He kind of reminds me of Christian Darrisaw, who's done really well for the Vikings. He's got a little bit of [Rashawn] Slater in him who plays for the Chargers."

That's some high praise, and as we know, Slater is a two-time Pro Bowler for the Chargers.

This is some bar to reach, and with Moore expected to get first bite at the left tackle apple, Simmons will be a good depth piece to begin with, but if we are being truthful, he should be pushing Moore for the starting role before too long.

Player comps are always fun, and some think it might put unnecessary pressure on players, but in Simmons' case, being a first round selection, the Chiefs are expecting him to slot straight in when it's his time and be a steady influence along the offensive line.

And who knows, maybe a couple of Pro Bowls are in his future, too.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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