The Kansas City Chiefs will open the 2026 season without left tackle Josh Simmons and defensive back Chamarri Conner when they host the Denver Broncos on Monday night.
Simmons has been ruled out with a back injury after failing to practice Thursday, Friday or Saturday. Conner followed the same path with a knee injury and will also miss Week 1. They are the only Chiefs carrying official game-status designations on Kansas City’s final injury report.
The most encouraging news involves Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs quarterback was a full participant throughout the week as he completes his return from the significant knee injury that ended his 2025 season. Mahomes carries no injury designation and is set to start against Denver.
Chris Jones created a late concern when his calf tightened up. Jones was limited Friday and did not practice Saturday, but Andy Reid described the decision as precautionary. Jones received no game designation, meaning he is expected to play.
Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed was limited Saturday with a knee issue after practicing fully Thursday and Friday, but he also carries no designation.
The rest of Kansas City’s notable injured players—including Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, Trey Smith, Ashton Gillotte, Jack Cochrane and R Mason Thomas—finished Saturday as full participants and are cleared for Monday night.
The biggest concern therefore becomes Simmons’ absence. Kansas City will have to protect Mahomes’ blind side without its starting left tackle against a Denver defense capable of generating significant edge pressure.
Otherwise, considering how many prominent Chiefs spent portions of the offseason recovering from injuries, Kansas City enters Week 1 in relatively good shape.
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