In the relentless world of NFL offseason training, where every rep and every film session can separate good teams from true contenders, the Kansas City Chiefs are once again showing why they remain a step ahead. This time, the spotlight is shining brightly on a young offensive lineman who is quietly positioning himself as Patrick Mahomes’ long-term guardian on the blind side. His name is Josh Simmons, and if the latest reports and his own words from a revealing podcast appearance are any indication, he is not just preparing for Year 2 – he is building himself into something special, something different, something that could anchor the Chiefs’ offense for the next decade.
Simmons was a first-round draft pick last year, selected with the kind of hype that suggested he could immediately become the left tackle of the future. Many scouts and analysts viewed him as the best pure left tackle in his entire draft class. Had it not been for a knee injury during the pre-draft process, there is a strong argument he would have been the first offensive lineman taken, potentially even cracking the top five overall. Instead, the Chiefs landed him later than expected, and while his rookie season had its ups and downs – including missed time due to personal reasons and then a fractured wrist – the potential was undeniable from the start. Now, entering his second year, Simmons is proving that those early struggles were merely fuel for an extraordinary comeback story.
Recently, Simmons sat down for an in-depth conversation with offensive line guru Brandon Thorne on the “Off the Line” podcast. This was his second appearance, and the two-hour episode offered fans and analysts a rare window into the mind of a player who is truly committed to excellence. What emerged was not the typical offseason chatter about lifting heavier weights or running faster sprints. Instead, Simmons dove deep into the technical, mental, and strategic side of his craft. He spoke passionately about studying the tape of elite veterans like Deion Dawkins, Larry Tunsil, Mitchell Schwarz, and even the legendary Joe Thomas. He discussed specific techniques he is incorporating, such as moving away from the “snatch” technique that can leave linemen vulnerable to momentum-driven rushes, and instead focusing on shooting leverage upward – a method he credits to his work with the Hamilton coaching approach.
One of the most compelling moments came when Simmons explained his desire to master advanced pass-protection counters. He mentioned learning the V-handle, the circle punch, and the Hamilton technique, all designed to stop power rushes while maintaining balance and control. For those unfamiliar with the terminology, these are highly specialized hand-placement and leverage moves that separate average linemen from the great ones. The circle punch, for example, involves a quick, precise jab-like strike to disrupt a defender’s charge and reassert dominance inside their frame. The Hamilton, as described, emphasizes shooting leverage to simultaneously halt momentum and power. Simmons is not just talking theory – he is putting in the mental reps, watching cut-ups, and drilling these moves until they become muscle memory.
This level of dedication is what has Chiefs fans and insiders so excited. Co-hosts on the podcast, including former NFL offensive lineman JD, could not contain their enthusiasm. JD, who has been vocal about Simmons since before the draft, reiterated that the young tackle has all the tools to become an All-Pro. “He was the best left tackle in his class,” JD emphasized. “If not for the knee, he’s the first pick by far.” The physical transformation is impossible to ignore either. Simmons appeared noticeably jacked during recent workouts, with a physique that screams seriousness and commitment. But it is not just about the muscles. It is the mindset. He admitted that last year’s absences may have left him feeling like he let the team down, and now he is channeling that into a relentless drive to improve.
What stands out most in the podcast is Simmons’ complete lack of ego. At one point, he turns to Thorne – a respected offensive line expert – and genuinely asks, “What would you do here?” It is not a rhetorical question or a show of false humility. He is a sponge, eager to absorb knowledge from anyone who can make him better. This attitude is rare for a highly drafted player in his second year, especially one who has already faced scrutiny and doubt. Some media reports last offseason questioned his commitment when he missed five games, with wild speculation that he might even quit football. Simmons has silenced those voices without saying a word. Instead, he is letting his preparation do the talking.
The implications for the Chiefs’ offense are massive. Patrick Mahomes has enjoyed elite protection for much of his career, but the offensive line has undergone changes. With Simmons locked in at left tackle, the blind side – the most critical area for any quarterback’s safety – looks rock solid for years to come. Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and make off-script magic happens because he trusts the pocket will hold. Simmons’ athletic feet, which one host compared to a “basketball player mirroring defenders,” allow him to stay square and patient even against elite speed rushers like those the Chiefs will face in the AFC. His improved hand usage and timing on punches will neutralize power moves that gave him trouble as a rookie.
The entire offensive line room appears to be embracing this same championship mentality. Veterans and younger players alike are putting in extra work. Creed Humphrey has been seen throwing around heavy weights, while others like Trey Smith have been vocal about their preparation. Simmons himself mentioned how Creed has served as a mentor, helping him adapt to NFL nuances. This collective buy-in is exactly what head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach look for when building sustained success. The line knows the offense runs through them. With Kenneth Walker III now in the backfield and explosive weapons like Xavier Worthy on the perimeter, a dominant offensive line could elevate the entire unit to new heights.
Defensively, the Chiefs have made noise with potential additions like the rumored interest in Cameron Jordan, but it is on the offensive side where Simmons’ growth could be the silent difference-maker. Last season, despite the injuries and absences, Simmons showed flashes of dominance in pass protection. He rarely allowed pressures that led to sacks, and when he faced tough matchups, he adjusted quickly – the mark of a player with high football intelligence. Now, with a full understanding of game speed and the mental side of the position, Year 2 could see him take that next leap. Podcast analysts predicted he could contend for All-Pro honors as early as this coming season. Looking around the AFC, the list of elite left tackles is strong but not unbeatable. Dawkins remains excellent, but Simmons has the physical tools and now the refined technique to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, there is something deeply human and relatable about Simmons’ journey. He is a former Ohio State champion who understands what it takes to win at the highest level. He is embracing the grind without seeking the spotlight. In an era where many young athletes chase social media fame, Simmons is in the film room, on the practice field, and in the weight room, asking questions and perfecting the little details that win games. That humility combined with elite talent is a dangerous combination for opposing defenses.
The Chiefs’ offensive line coach Andy Heck has clearly played a pivotal role in Simmons’ development. The techniques being drilled – from independent hand usage to maintaining verticality and patience in the pocket – are straight out of the playbook of sustained excellence. JD, drawing from his own NFL experience against legends like Bruce Smith, Julius Peppers, and Dwight Freeney, noted that Simmons’ footwork reminds him of greats like Willie Roaf. “Silky smooth tap dancer” was the phrase used, highlighting how Simmons can mirror rushers while staying in perfect position. When combined with the physicality he is building, it creates a complete package.
As mandatory minicamp and training camp approach, all eyes will be on how quickly Simmons translates this offseason work into on-field dominance. The Chiefs open the 2026 season with high expectations once again, and a fully realized Josh Simmons could be the final piece that makes the offensive line truly elite. Mahomes will benefit from the extra time in the pocket, the running game will have a stronger foundation, and the entire team will feel the confidence that comes from knowing the quarterback is protected by a future star.
Chiefs Kingdom has every reason to be thrilled. The rumors and doubts from last year have been replaced by concrete evidence of growth, dedication, and hunger. Josh Simmons is not just another offensive lineman – he is different. He is the long-term protector Mahomes and the Chiefs have been waiting for. In a league where offensive lines are often overlooked until they fail, Simmons is making sure failure is not an option. His story is still being written, but if the offseason is any preview, it is going to be one for the highlight reels and the record books.
This kind of player development is what separates dynasties from one-hit wonders. The Chiefs have Mahomes, they have the coaching staff, and now they appear to have the offensive line talent ready to dominate for years. Simmons’ transformation is not just exciting for 2026 – it is a foundation for future Super Bowl runs. Fans who have followed the team through the rebuild and the glory years know that moments like these are when championships are truly built – in the quiet hours of the offseason when no one is watching, except the players who refuse to settle.
The excitement is palpable. From the weight room gains to the film study sessions, from the technical refinements to the humble attitude, Josh Simmons is checking every box. Year 2 is going to be special, and Kansas City is lucky to have him leading the charge up front. The AFC better take notice because Mahomes’ long-term protector is ready, and he is different in all the best ways.
