The Kansas City Chiefs face a decisive moment. The team lost 31-28 to the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving and now sits at 6-6. The regular season enters its final stretch, and every game matters. Patrick Mahomes works to lead another playoff push. Their next challenge will be against the Houston Texans in Week 14.
Mahomes delivered a strong performance despite the loss. He threw for 261 yards and four touchdowns. He did it without right guard Trey Smith, who missed the game due to an ankle injury. However, the offensive line took another hit. Rookie left tackle Josh Simmons exited the game in the third quarter.
The rookie’s absence complicates Kansas City’s offensive plans
According to Athlonsports, Ian Rapoport reported that Simmons suffered a dislocated and fractured right wrist. He left the stadium with a cast and will seek a second opinion before the Chiefs decide his immediate future. They could place him on injured reserve, a move that would sideline him for four games.
The Chiefs rarely have tryout players on the NFL transactions list during the season. Today, they had a few. The group was made up of WRs/returners and tackles. pic.twitter.com/qH4szymUO6
— Jesse Newell (@jessenewell) December 1, 2025
Facing this situation, Kansas City took action. The team worked out several free agents. They invited five offensive tackles: Nicholas Petit-Frere, Zachary Thomas, D’Ante Smith, Zach Banner, and Matt Waletzko. Thomas and Banner bring the most experience, with more than 30 games played. They also worked out three wide receivers: Joaquin Davis, Erik Ezukanma, and Jha’Quan Jackson. The information appeared on the NFL transaction wire.
Jesse Newell of The Athletic highlighted the move. “The Chiefs rarely have workout players on the NFL transaction wire during the season.” The team decided to explore options to reinforce critical positions.
The Chiefs will host the Texans on Sunday Night Football at 8:20 p.m. ET. The urgency grows. The offense needs stability and depth. Simmons’ injury forces the team to seek immediate solutions. The season still offers room for recovery, but every decision can shape the final stretch of the schedule.
