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Many NFL Draft analysts have lauded the Kansas City Chiefs for selecting Ohio State left tackle Josh Simmons with the No. 32 overall pick last week. The consensus take is that — had Simmons not torn his patellar tendon in mid-October — he never would have fallen to the end of the first round.
The Chiefs capitalized on the fall in a decision that future Hall of Fame offensive lineman Jason Kelce praised on the latest edition of the “New Heights” podcast with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
“It’s one of the guys I actually watched a little bit,” said Jason. “I absolutely love this guy on tape. The way he moves reminds me a lot of some high-level players — the way he bends, plays with his ass low to the ground. His arms only say 33 [inches], but it feels like he’s got much bigger length than that.”
As it turned out, Jason’s eyes were right. On Monday, Chiefs director of player personnel and college scouting Ryne Nutt revealed that Kansas City measured Simmons’ arms closer to 34 inches during his visit.
“He is big, he’s strong, he moves people,” continued Jason. “He’s an outstanding pass blocker. This — and the Eagles’ first-round pick (linebacker Jihaad Campbell) — were two of the biggest steals in the draft. I’m not just saying that because they’re both our teams.
“I really think if Josh Simmons doesn’t tear his patellar tendon, he’s the first tackle off the board, most likely. The fact that the Chiefs got him at 32 could be unbelievable value — if he comes back from the knee injury.”
And that is the lingering question, though the Chiefs have maintained that they have liked what they have seen in their medical evaluations. Any injury concerns would not stop Travis from toasting his general manager.
“‘Atta boy, [Brett] Veach!” clapped Travis. “That’s what I’m talking about, Veach!”
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