Chiefs Decision on Josh Simmons Fate Expected Before Raiders Game
The mysterious absence of first-round draft pick Josh Simmons from the Kansas City Chiefs will apparently continue into a second week, after the rookie offensive lineman was ruled out of Sunday’s home game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
While the Chiefs have given no indication of a timeline for Simmons’ return after leaving the team on what coach Andy Reid called a “personal” situation, the team will need to make a decision on how to handle the 22-year-old’s absence in a formal capacity, likely before kickoff in the Raiders game.
That decision would give the first tangible clue as to how long the Chiefs believe Simmons will need to resolve whatever issue led to his leaving the team.
Veach Must Make NFI Decision on Simmons
Public details of what exactly Simmons is dealing with have been essentially non-existent. If Reid and the Chiefs players know the reasons for behind the rookie’s departure prior to last Sunday night’s matchup against the Detroit Lions, they are not saying.
The team’s desire to maintain Simmons’ privacy is certainly understandable, but the Chiefs also have a football team to operate, and as long as Simmons is gone the Chiefs are playing shorthanded, unable to fill his roster spot.
That means general manager Brett Veach — who Reid said was handling the Simmons situation — must decide whether to add his player to the NFL’s Non-Football Injury (NFI) list, a move that would render Simmons ineligible to return for four games from the time his name is added to the list.
“If it will be an extended absence for Simmons, Veach could consider placing him on the league’s NFI list,” wrote Kansas City Star Chiefs correspondent Pete Sweeney on Friday. “The move would open up a roster spot, which Kansas City could use to elevate tackle Chukwuebuka Godrick from the practice squad — or sign a free agent.”
Move Will Indicate Duration of Simmons’ Absence
“Look for the Chiefs to send their first real message on the Josh Simmons situation this afternoon,” wrote Outkick reporter Bobby Burack on Saturday morning. “If the team believes he will out a while, today would be the day to put him on NFI. If they don’t put him on NFI, it’d suggest they think he could return shortly.”
As of 8 p.m. Central Time, however, the Chiefs had not announced any formal move to add Simmons to the NFI list. Nor had they said anything about a decision to keep him off the list.
Because they have already ruled Simmons out for Sunday, adding him to the list prior to the game would allow the team to face the Raiders with a full 53-man roster.
But it would also mean that they would definitely be without Simmons’ services against the Washington Commanders, Buffalo Bills and Denver Broncos as well, the Chiefs’ upcoming three opponents.
Jaylon Moore Pressed Into Service
If they do not add him to the NFI list, that could be an indication that they expect Simmons to resolve his “personal” situation soon, and are willing to do without him for this week in expectation that he will be back potentially prior to the October 27
In the offseason, the Chiefs signed fifth-year veteran lineman Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million free agenct contract, but Simmons quickly surpassed Moore and earned the majority of playing time at the left tackle position.
But Moore was pressed into service against the Lions, and presumably will get the start Sunday against Las Vegas as well.
9 Teams Submit Trade Offers for Packers LB Micah Parsons — Market Heating Up Fast
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Green Bay Packers linebacker Micah Parsons has emerged as a top target on the trade market, with nine teams reportedly submitting offers for his services. The 24-year-old defensive standout, widely regarded as one of the most dynamic and versatile linebackers in the NFL, now finds himself at a crucial crossroads in his career. Under the leadership of head coach Matt LaFleur, Parsons has been an anchor of the Packers’ defense, but with increasing trade interest, his future in Green Bay has become a topic of widespread speculation.
Parsons, who was drafted by the Packers in 2022, quickly made his mark as a ferocious tackler and playmaker. Known for his exceptional athleticism, speed, and ability to disrupt plays, Parsons has been one of the most feared linebackers in the league. His impact has been undeniable — both against the run and in coverage. As a leader on defense, Parsons has set the tone for the Packers, consistently being a game-changer on the field.
In an exclusive statement, Parsons shared his thoughts on the trade rumors, saying, “Matt LaFleur told me there were nine teams interested in trading for me. I said, if there’s truly a place where I can get a real shot – like a starting LB role – then let me go. But if not, I’m staying with the Packers, the place that’s shaped me, giving everything I’ve got and waiting for my moment to come.”
Despite being a central figure in the Packers’ defensive scheme, Parsons’ future with the team is uncertain. Green Bay is currently navigating a rebuilding phase, with an eye on both long-term success and immediate improvements. Trading away a player of Parsons’ caliber could provide significant value in return — likely yielding high draft picks or immediate assets to strengthen other areas of the roster. However, letting go of one of the league’s best young linebackers would be a difficult pill to swallow for a defense already undergoing changes.
The trade market for Parsons has reportedly heated up, with nine teams expressing interest in acquiring the versatile linebacker. His ability to play all three linebacker positions, along with his pass-rushing prowess and ability to cover running backs and tight ends, makes him an ideal fit for a number of teams looking to bolster their defense. Whether a team needs a leader for the long haul or a high-impact player to make a difference immediately, Parsons has quickly proven his worth.
Despite the swirling rumors, Parsons has made it clear that his loyalty lies with the Packers. “This is the team that drafted me, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity,” Parsons said. “But if there’s a chance for me to get a real shot somewhere else, I’ll consider it. If I stay, I’ll continue to give everything I have to Green Bay and help this team succeed.”
With the trade deadline approaching, the Packers now face a difficult decision. Will they part ways with one of their most valuable assets, or will they keep Parsons as the cornerstone of their defense? As nine teams reportedly vie for his services, Micah Parsons' future in Green Bay remains one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the final days before the trade deadline.
