Kansas City Chiefs 2025 first-round draft pick Josh Simmons has been the center of attention during training camp.
Simmons seemingly locked down the starting left tackle job during Day 1 of practice. He has certainly looked the part throughout position drills and 11-on-11 team scrimmages. That was the case again on Monday, as our friend Lyle Graversen recorded Simmons having a dominant rep against rookie defensive end Ashton Gillotte.
Simmons vs Gillotte in 1 on 1s pic.twitter.com/q8GXNvoASn
— Lyle Graversen (@LyleGraversen) July 28, 2025
Simmons not only stonewalled Gillotte, but finished the rep strong by throwing him to the ground. Simmons looked like a multi-year veteran who was teaching a rookie what life is like in the NFL. It is becoming more apparent throughout each practice that he has the makings of a franchise left tackle.
If that proves to be the case, Simmons could be the steal of the 2025 NFL Draft. He fell to Kansas City at No. 31 overall because of concerns regarding the torn patellar tendon in his left knee, which he sustained back in October with Ohio State. Before the injury, he was considered by many as the top offensive tackle prospect in the nation.
Simmons impressed the Chiefs' coaching staff with his recovery and work ethic throughout OTAs and mandatory minicamp. That has paid off in a big way as Simmons will be entrusted with protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes' blindside as a rookie. Jaylon Moore, who was expected to compete with Simmons at left tackle, has been playing right tackle as Jawaan Taylor works his way back from knee surgery.
Monday marked the second padded practice for Kansas City. Their first preseason game is about a week and a half away, which will be the next big test for Simmons. If he becomes what the Chiefs hope, the offensive line will go from being a weakness one year ago to a strength.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!