KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs made a notable roster adjustment heading into Week 8 after offensive tackle Josh Simmons missed his second consecutive week of practice due to personal reasons. In response, the team is expected to reunite with a familiar face — former undrafted rookie tackle Esa Pole.

Simmons, who had started the first six games of his rookie campaign, was inactive during Kansas City’s 31-0 win over the Las Vegas Raiders and is likely to remain unavailable when the Chiefs host the Washington Commanders on Sunday. Head coach Andy Reid declined to elaborate on the nature of Simmons’ absence but emphasized the organization’s support.

“Josh is handling something away from football,” Reid said Friday. “We’re giving him space to take care of what he needs. He’s been a huge part of our line so far, but we’re about people first.”

Simmons’ absence comes at an inconvenient time for Kansas City, which has just begun regaining its rhythm after a rocky 2-3 start. The Chiefs’ offensive line, however, held firm in Week 7, allowing zero sacks in the shutout win. Still, the front office opted to add insurance ahead of the next stretch of games.

According to A to Z Sports’ Charles Goldman, Esa Pole, who spent training camp with Kansas City before being released in final cuts, is expected to sign to the Chiefs’ practice squad. Pole, 23, spent two months with the New York Jets before being waived on Thursday. He flew to Kansas City Friday evening and is anticipated to finalize the signing on Saturday.

“Despite interest from other clubs, Pole is expected to re-sign with Kansas City on the practice squad,” Goldman reported. “A source with direct knowledge of the situation said Pole is flying into Kansas City on Friday evening and will sign Saturday if all goes as planned.”

The move fills an open practice-squad spot created earlier this week when cornerback Kevin Knowles was promoted to the 53-man roster. For Pole, it’s a return to familiar territory — and a chance to resume learning under one of the league’s premier offensive coaching staffs.

Kansas City’s offensive line has been one of its most stable units this season, thanks to strong performances from veterans Creed Humphrey, Trey Smith, and Joe Thuney. But Simmons’ steady development at left tackle had been an encouraging storyline. The 2025 first-round pick out of Ohio State quickly impressed with his athleticism and composure in pass protection.

Teammates expressed support for Simmons amid his absence. “He’s one of those guys who does everything right,” guard Trey Smith said. “We’re all behind him. Life happens, and this team takes care of its own.”

The Chiefs’ Week 8 matchup against the Commanders presents another critical test as Kansas City pushes for its third straight win and looks to stay competitive in the AFC playoff race. The Commanders’ defensive front, led by Jonathan Allen and Montez Sweat, will test the Chiefs’ protection schemes regardless of who starts at tackle.

If Simmons remains out, second-year lineman Wanya Morris is expected to continue filling in at left tackle, with veteran depth options on standby. Reid indicated that the team remains confident in its rotation.

“You always want to have layers of depth,” Reid said. “That’s part of how we’ve been able to stay consistent through injuries or anything unexpected. Esa knows the playbook and the system, so this move makes sense.”

For now, the Chiefs’ primary focus remains supporting Simmons’ well-being while ensuring the offensive line maintains stability. The timing of the move suggests the team is preparing for an extended absence, though no official timeline has been announced.

As Kansas City eyes its third consecutive win, the return of a familiar face in Pole underscores a simple truth of the NFL: depth is everything, and readiness never rests. While Simmons steps away to handle personal matters, the Chiefs continue marching toward another playoff push — one careful roster move at a time.