Josh Simmons is already getting the Mitchell Schwartz treatment in Kansas City

The Kansas City Chiefs knew what they were doing when they invested their first-round pick in offensive tackle Josh Simmons in the 2025 NFL Draft. Part of that plan included pairing him with a franchise great.

Simmons, a former Ohio State tackle selected at No. 32 overall, entered the league with sky-high potential but also a few red flags. A torn patellar tendon cut short his final season in Columbus, and vague notions of character concerns were linked to Simmons during the pre-draft process.

Still, the Chiefs believed in Simmons' ceiling enough to make him their first-round investment, and they’re doing everything possible to help him reach it. That includes bringing in former All-Pro right tackle Mitchell Schwartz to work with Simmons as he transitions to the pros.

Josh Simmons spoke to Chiefs reporters from the team's first day of mandatory minicamp.

Simmons spoke to reporters from the first day of mandatory minicamp for the Chiefs to give updates on his learning curve and general readiness.

"Really, [Coach Reid] has been kind of, you know, talking to me every day after practice, giving me tips, and Mitch [Schwartz] was out there. So he's kind of been putting me together with [Schwartz] and just kind of being a really good support for a different angle on this play. So it's definitely, definitely been helpful."

The Chiefs’ investment also required trust in Simmons’ recovery process. Fortunately for Kansas City, the rookie says things are right on track.

"This is kind of, yeah, what I anticipated. It's what I worked towards," said Simmons. "I got my operation done by the Platinum Standard, Dr. [Neal] ElAttrache, so I was already feeling good about that straight off the table. And then I have, like, the best in the business here in Arrowhead Drive for rehab."

Simmons still faces a steep learning curve, especially as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of the Chiefs’ offense. But with a strong support system that includes coaches, veterans, and franchise icons alike, Simmons is leaning into every opportunity to grow.

"Yeah, I mean, it's a lot of different things than they'll run in college, so just kind of adjusting to the speed or what I'll see. And then, you know, obviously leaning on guys like Kingsley [Suamataia] and, you know, Jawaan [Taylor], Trey [Smith], all those guys. It'll happen," said Simmons.