Josh Simmons

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Chiefs locked up a significant steal with Josh Simmons' four-year, $14.7M extension, earning an A- CVI that reflects exceptional value for a solid starter at left tackle. At just $3.7M annually with full guarantees, Kansas City secured a reliable blind-side protector at well below market rate — elite tackles command $20M+ per year, while even above-average starters typically earn $12-15M in today's market. The full guarantee structure carries minimal risk given the modest AAV, essentially making this a risk-free investment in a position where competent play is worth far more than the contract's financial commitment. Simmons profiles as the type of steady, unspectacular tackle who won't make Pro Bowls but also won't get Patrick Mahomes killed, which is exactly what championship-caliber teams need from their offensive line depth. This deal exemplifies smart roster construction — the Chiefs identified a player performing above his pay grade and locked him up before the market reset his value, giving them crucial salary cap flexibility to retain their core stars while maintaining protection for their franchise quarterback.

Performance Analysis

Josh Simmons earns a C+ grade as a promising young offensive tackle who the Chiefs selected to protect Patrick Mahomes' blind side. Kansas City's investment in Simmons reflects their belief in his potential to be a long-term answer at left tackle, and the early returns have been encouraging. His combination of length, footwork, and pass-blocking technique suggests a player who can handle the demands of protecting the league's best quarterback. The grade reflects a player still growing into his potential but already showing starter-caliber ability. With a full NFL offseason under his belt, Simmons could take a significant leap toward becoming one of the league's better young tackles.

Current Sentiment

Josh Simmons finds himself in a precarious position with Kansas City, earning a troubling D- sentiment grade as media speculation swirls around his mysterious four-game absence that the Chiefs refuse to explain publicly. The left tackle's 22-day disappearance has created an information vacuum that outlets are aggressively trying to fill, generating sustained negative coverage that questions both his reliability and standing within the organization. His reluctance to address the circumstances publicly, combined with the team's organizational silence, suggests this absence involved serious matters requiring internal handling rather than transparency. The sustained media attention has been particularly damaging given Simmons' modest contract status and lack of elite production statistics, leaving him without the organizational clout typically needed to weather prolonged controversy. Heading into 2026, the narrative around Simmons has shifted from his on-field performance to fundamental questions about his dependability as a franchise player. The Chiefs' handling of the situation indicates they view this as a significant internal matter, creating uncertainty about Simmons' long-term future in Kansas City that extends well beyond typical football considerations.