Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Josh Simmons has strategically gained weight in the offseason to improve his protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Following a knee injury in 2024, Simmons dedicated his efforts to adding mass, a move lauded by head coach Andy Reid as essential for long-term performance and enhanced stability against formidable edge rushers. This physical transformation comes as Mahomes prepares to return from his own season-ending knee injury, making Simmons' fortified presence on the offensive line even more crucial.
Last year, Simmons' weight fluctuated significantly. He weighed 317 pounds at the combine before his rookie season saw a drop to approximately 285 pounds. Now, he has successfully increased his size, aiming to provide a more robust shield for Mahomes. Head coach Andy Reid highlighted the positive impact of this weight gain during an August 6 training camp practice, stating that it would give Simmons "more lead in his pants," ultimately paying dividends throughout the demanding NFL season.
Simmons' initiative to gain weight stems from a conscious decision to be more effective in his role. He expressed a desire in June to reach 300 pounds before Week 1, a goal he appears to have met. His dedication to rebuilding his strength follows two injury-plagued seasons, including a knee injury in his senior year that limited him to six games, and a wrist injury that cut short his 2025 season during the Thanksgiving game. The emphasis from Coach Reid was on gaining functional strength, distinguishing it from unproductive "cheeseburger weight," to leverage Simmons' natural athleticism and powerful build.
The need for enhanced protection is particularly pressing given Mahomes' recent injury history. Last season, Mahomes endured 34 sacks in 14 games, marking his second-highest career total, just shy of the 36 sacks he took in 17 games in 2024. As Mahomes targets a September 14 return at Arrowhead Stadium from a major knee injury, the reliability of his offensive line, especially his blind-side protector, becomes paramount. With Simmons now appearing stronger and more physically imposing, the Chiefs organization anticipates that their left tackle will deliver the crucial stability Mahomes requires to regain his peak form.
Josh Simmons' strategic offseason weight gain is a calculated move designed to optimize his performance as an offensive tackle. This transformation directly addresses the critical need to safeguard quarterback Patrick Mahomes, particularly as Mahomes makes his comeback from a significant knee injury. The added physical presence from Simmons is expected to enhance pocket security and provide a more resilient barrier against opposing pass rushers, ultimately contributing to the Chiefs' overall offensive stability and success.
