RM Chiefs Rookie Returns After Emotional Hiatus — A Promise to His Mother Inspires the Team
Kansas City, MO – November 11, 2025
After several weeks away from the gridiron, Kansas City Chiefs rookie Josh Simmons has made his long-awaited return — bringing with him not just his gear, but a powerful promise.
The Chiefs’ first-round draft pick had been absent from team activities for personal reasons that head coach Andy Reid and the organization chose to keep private. When Simmons rejoined practice this week, reporters immediately sensed something different about him — quieter, more composed, and more driven than ever.
Behind that calm exterior lies a deeply personal story that has touched the entire locker room. Simmons’ mother has been battling a serious hereditary illness — the same condition that once afflicted his grandmother. The young lineman stepped away from football to be by her side, spending long days and sleepless nights supporting his family through an incredibly difficult time.
Now back in Kansas City, Simmons says his purpose is clearer than ever.
“My mom is my reason for everything,” he said after practice. “Every play, every rep — it’s all for her. I told her I’d bring that trophy home. I told her we’d win the Super Bowl together.”
Coach Reid spoke with pride about how Simmons has handled such adversity.
“What he’s gone through is something no young man should have to face,” Reid said. “But he came out stronger. Family comes first — always. We’re proud of how he’s handled it, and the whole team is behind him.”
Since his return, teammates say Simmons has become the emotional core of the offensive line — showing up to every drill with quiet fire and an unmistakable sense of purpose. During practice, Patrick Mahomes was seen putting a hand on his shoulder, telling him,
“We got you, brother. Let’s do this for her.”
Later, Mahomes reflected on how much Simmons’ story has resonated with the team.
“When we heard what Josh said — that he’s fighting for his mom, that he’s chasing the Super Bowl for her — something shifted,” Mahomes shared. “You can feel it. There’s a different kind of focus and energy here now. We’re not just playing for ourselves anymore — we’re playing for Josh and his family.”
Across Chiefs Kingdom, fans have rallied behind Simmons’ story, filling social media with hashtags like #WinForMom and #FamilyBeforeFootball, turning his personal battle into a source of collective inspiration.
As the Chiefs prepare for the final stretch of the season, Josh Simmons isn’t just competing for wins or stats — he’s playing for something far greater: for love, for family, and for a promise made in a hospital room.
“We’ll lift that Lombardi together,” he whispered.
