Kansas City, MO – October 18, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs have confirmed that rookie offensive tackle Josh Simmons has been dealing with a deeply personal and distressing family matter that kept him away from the team prior to the Week 6 matchup against the Detroit Lions.

According to multiple sources close to the situation, Simmons’ absence was not injury-related but tied to a private legal crisis involving his family. His mother was hospitalized following an alleged incident of

domestic violence at the hands of his father, just days before the Chiefs’ game.

Reports indicate that Simmons, who has long been known for his close bond with his mother, had been quietly supporting her financially throughout his rookie contract. However, much of that money was reportedly taken by his father — a situation that left the young lineman emotionally shattered and seeking help from the organization.

In response, the Chiefs’ ownership and legal department immediately stepped in to provide full legal protection and counseling assistance. Team owner Clark Hunt released a statement that quickly spread through social media:

“No player in this organization will ever have to fight alone,” Hunt said. “Our entire legal and support team stood by him through every step, and he’ll be back on the field soon — free from any weight off it.”

While the team has shown full emotional and legal support for Simmons, the Chiefs are also expected to bench him temporarily — not as punishment, but as a protective measure and internal reminder of accountability during personal crises.

Inside the locker room, teammates have rallied behind Simmons, understanding the emotional toll of his situation. Coaches emphasized that the benching was procedural and short-term, designed to give him time to heal mentally and refocus before returning to competition.

For now, Simmons’ story has become a sobering reminder that NFL players often face battles far beyond the gridiron — and in Kansas City, at least, those battles are never fought alone.