Josh Simmons return timeline injury update: Will Chiefs LT play again this season?

Josh Simmons is recovering from wrist surgery after his Week 13 injury against the Dallas Cowboys, raising urgent questions about when the Kansas City Chiefs left tackle could return. The setback occurred on November 28, and the team confirmed his move to injured reserve soon after.

The injury comes at a critical point in the Chiefs season. Kansas City is fighting to stay in the AFC playoff race, and losing its starting left tackle adds pressure to an already inconsistent offense. Simmons’ recovery timeline and eligibility window have now become major topics for team officials and fans.

Latest medical outlook on the Josh Simmons return timeline

Team reports confirmed that Simmons suffered a dislocated and fractured wrist during the Week 13 loss. Multiple league outlets reported that he underwent surgery in early December, and the procedure was considered successful. The Chiefs placed him on injured reserve immediately after, which requires a minimum four-game absence under league rules.

Based on current NFL regulations, the earliest possible return date for Simmons would fall around Week 18. That projection aligns with what team insiders have indicated, as the final regular season game is the only remaining window in which he is eligible to be activated. Head coach Andy Reid acknowledged the injury on December 2 and said the team would track his progress before making any decisions.

Analysts have been cautious. Several evaluations note that wrist fractures involving dislocation often require extended stabilization and rehab. For offensive linemen, pressure on the hands and forearm is constant, which increases the difficulty of rushing back before full healing. Some observers believe Simmons may not return at all in 2025, even if medically cleared late in the year.

The Chiefs training staff will continue periodic evaluations over the coming weeks. Reports indicate that Simmons has responded well early in the rehab process, but the team has not set any return target. Any comeback would require clearance from both medical personnel and team officials. For now, the assessment remains week to week.

How Simmons absence shapes the Chiefs late season path

The Chiefs will rely on Wanya Morris to stabilize the left side of the offensive line. Morris has starting experience, but Simmons had been a key part of Kansas City’s pass protection structure. His injury forces adjustments in blocking schemes and alters the team’s lineup consistency.

The timing increases the impact. Kansas City enters a decisive stretch of games while competing for playoff position. Protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes becomes even more essential as the offense continues to search for rhythm. Without Simmons, the margin for error narrows.

If Simmons recovers fully and the Chiefs remain in the postseason race, a Week 18 or early playoff return could offer a measurable boost. If not, the team will finish the season with Morris in the starting role. Either scenario underscores the significance of Simmons injury update and his uncertain return timeline.

Simmons return remains possible but not guaranteed. His progress over the next several weeks will determine whether Kansas City sees him again this season. For now, the focus is on recovery, stability, and evaluating each stage carefully.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Josh Simmons injury update?

He is recovering from surgery on a fractured and dislocated wrist. He remains on injured reserve and will be evaluated periodically through December.

Q2: What is the Josh Simmons return timeline?

The earliest return date is Week 18, under NFL IR rules. Whether he plays depends on healing, strength testing, and team approval.

Q3: Could Josh Simmons return for the playoffs?

Yes, if the Chiefs qualify and if Simmons is medically cleared. Analysts note that his injury type makes a late season return uncertain.

Q4: How does Simmons injury affect the Chiefs?

The team must adjust its offensive line structure and rely on Wanya Morris. Protection stability becomes more difficult during a key stretch.

Q5: Has Andy Reid commented on Simmons status?

Yes. Reid said the team will monitor his progress and has not ruled out a return this season.