On Friday, the Kansas City ChiIfs
played to a 9-9 preseason tie with the Seatle Seahawks in their preseason finale.For many Chiefs fans, the biggest concern was on a player not actually playing in the game. Second-year tackle Josh Simmons has been absent from practice this week after being evaluated for back pain.
On Thursday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler confirmed that Simmons was still undergoing testing while stressing that the issue could be prove minor.
Speaking after the game, head coach Andy Reid expressed
optimism to Pete Sweeney of the Kansas City Star that Simmons would practice soon and confirmed that the goal is to have Simmons playing pain free.
“It’s going to take a little bit of time, here,” remarked the coach, “but he’s a hard worker when it comes to these types of things. It’s just a matter of eliminating some of the pain he has. And strength — making sure he has enough strength, there.”
Rookie Kahlil Benson started at left tackle in Simmons’ place on Thursday. In three preseason games, Benson has played three different positions: both tackle spots and right guard. Reid is happy with what the rookie brings if called upon.
“He’s made improvement every week,” Reid observed, “and I like the way he goes about his business. I think he stands a chance to be a good player as long as he keeps progressing. There’s still work to be done. He’s a willing worker, and I love that part. He doesn’t normally make the same mistake twice. I love that part. He is a big human being that is a good athlete, and I like that.”
Reid had no updates on injuries from Friday’s game. Cornerback Melvin Smith Jr. went to the medical tent in the first half. The team later ruled Smith outwith a rib injury.
