KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons will miss Monday's season opener against the Denver Broncos due to a lower back injury that has sidelined him for over three weeks. The 2025 first-round pick's absence forces undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson into the starting lineup at left tackle, marking the first time an undrafted rookie on offense has started Week 1 under coach Andy Reid since his tenure began in 2013.

Benson, who primarily played right tackle during training camp at Indiana, will be tasked with protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes' blind side. Mahomes returns after nine months recovering from a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee suffered on Dec. 14, 2025. Reid expressed confidence in Benson, stating, "He's done a nice job for us... We wouldn't put him in there if we didn't think that." Mahomes echoed that trust, noting Benson has "worked their tail off to be at that spot."

Veteran Jaylon Moore, a five-year pro with left tackle experience, is expected to start at right tackle. The Chiefs face a formidable Broncos defense led by pass rusher Nik Bonitto and cornerback Pat Surtain II, making Benson's NFL debut a significant test.