What's Happening?
Josh Simmons, the Kansas City Chiefs' first-round draft pick from Ohio State, made his professional debut in a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. Despite the Chiefs' 20-17 loss, Simmons showcased his skills during his limited playtime. He participated in only two drives, totaling 10 snaps, but demonstrated strong fundamentals and explosiveness. Simmons effectively handled one-on-one matchups with edge rushers, displaying powerful footwork and hand placement. However, he did experience a minor setback when he missed a hand placement, allowing the rusher to gain control momentarily. The Chiefs' offensive strategy did not heavily feature Simmons, as the team ran few plays in his direction.
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Why It's Important?
Simmons' performance is significant as it provides a glimpse into the potential impact he could have on the Chiefs' offensive line. As a first-round pick, expectations are high for Simmons to contribute significantly to the team's success. His ability to recover from mistakes and maintain strong protection is crucial for the Chiefs, especially in protecting star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Simmons' development could strengthen the team's offensive line, which is vital for their aspirations in the upcoming season. His performance also sets a baseline for his growth and adaptation to the professional level.
What's Next?
Simmons and the Chiefs are expected to face the Seattle Seahawks in their next preseason game, where he is likely to receive more playing time. This will provide further opportunities to evaluate his performance and integration into the team's offensive strategy. The coaching staff will likely focus on diversifying play calls to better assess Simmons' capabilities in various scenarios. Continued observation of his development will be crucial as the team prepares for the regular season.
