Kansas City Chiefs bolster offensive line by picking Josh Simmons last in NFL draft

In Kansas City, Missouri, on April 25, 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs made a significant decision in the NFL draft by selecting Josh Simmons, an offensive tackle from Ohio State University, with the last pick in the first round. This move was particularly crucial for the Chiefs, as they aimed to strengthen their offensive line to better protect quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The selection marked the 32nd overall pick of the draft, and the Chiefs had strategically swapped slots with the Philadelphia Eagles just before making their choice, gaining a valuable fifth-round pick in return. Josh Simmons’ journey to this point has been marked by challenges, as he missed most of the previous season due to a serious knee injury, which initially made teams hesitant to use a high draft pick on him. However, the Chiefs’ medical assessments provided reassurance, leading to their decision. The Chiefs had struggled significantly with the left tackle position in the previous season. They relied on star guard Joe Thuney at the tackle position, indicating a pressing need for improvement in protecting Mahomes, who had been vulnerable at times throughout the last campaign. The Chiefs had previously attempted to address this issue by selecting another player, Kingsley Suamataia, in the second round of last year’s draft, but he was quickly benched, further exacerbating their need for a stable left tackle. With the Super Bowl loss still fresh in their minds, the Chiefs appeared determined to prevent further vulnerabilities in their offensive line. Mahomes expressed excitement about the selection through social media, underlining the positive reception of this decision. In the grand narrative of the NFL draft, being chosen as Mr. Irrelevant, or the last pick, has evolved into an event marked by both celebration and marketing opportunities. Historically, being picked last was viewed negatively, as most players selected at this position seldom enjoyed lengthy careers in the NFL. However, the tradition surrounding Mr. Irrelevant has changed, emphasizing its unique distinction and the camaraderie among previous recipients who honor the experience. As a result of these dynamics, Simmons’s selection not only fulfills a strategic need for the Chiefs but also adds to the storied narrative of NFL drafts and the players involved.