Patrick Mahomes is focused on his teammate Josh Simmons, who has been absent from the Kansas City Chiefs due to undisclosed personal issues.
“I’ll keep conversations kind of between us,” Mahomes stated during a press conference on October 15. “But I’m always praying for him. I’m praying for all my teammates.” His words reflect a deep sense of camaraderie, emphasizing the importance of privacy in such matters.
Simmons, 22, was unexpectedly ruled out of the Chiefs' game against the Detroit Lions on October 12, just hours before kickoff.
According to reports, Simmons is dealing with a family matter back in California, as noted by NFL insider Ian Rapoport.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid addressed the situation during his media session, stating, “As far as Josh Simmons’ situation goes, I’m not going to comment on it today. [Chiefs general manager Brett] Veach is handling everything there.” Reid’s response left many questions unanswered.
When pressed for a timeline regarding Simmons’ return, Reid simply shook his head, indicating uncertainty.
ESPN’s Nate Taylor described the situation as “the strangest” he has encountered while covering the team. Speaking on 96.5 The Fan on October 16, he expressed concern for Simmons, noting, “I do believe it’s a family matter... When Patrick Mahomes said yesterday that he’s ‘praying’ for Josh Simmons, I think we all need to take that cue from the quarterback.”
Taylor conveyed a sense of unease about the lack of details surrounding Simmons’ absence. “I’m fearful because we don’t have all the details right now,” he said. “This is really difficult for Josh. I can’t imagine what he’s going through based on what I’ve heard.”
The situation presents a challenge for the Chiefs organization as they navigate how to support Simmons while preparing for upcoming games. Taylor emphasized the unpredictability of life and the need for empathy in such circumstances. “You could do all the scouting... but life is unpredictable,” he remarked. “You have to be a human that sympathizes.”
Before the Chiefs faced the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 6, Simmons was listed as questionable due to an “illness” but ultimately played in that game. Taylor speculated that this might be connected to Simmons’ current absence.
Simmons remains listed as questionable for the Chiefs' next game against the Las Vegas Raiders on October 19, leaving fans and teammates alike hoping for clarity and a swift resolution to his situation.
