Ohio State Football offensive lineman and 2025 College Football Playoff National Champion Josh Simmons was selected 32nd overall in the 2025 NFL Draft by The Kansas City Chiefs!
In the world of football, where elite athletes dominate the headlines, offensive linemen often don’t get the recognition they deserve. But for Josh Simmons, an exceptional offensive tackle from Ohio State University, that is about to change. Selected 32nd overall in the 2025 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs, Simmons enters the league with a reputation as one of the top offensive line prospects in recent years. His selection marks a significant milestone in his football career, and with the Chiefs, Simmons is poised to make a lasting impact in the NFL.
For years, Simmons has been a key player on the Ohio State Buckeyes’ offensive line, a group that has produced some of the most talented and highly respected linemen in college football. His journey to the NFL has been one filled with hard work, growth, and determination. He now finds himself in a perfect situation to develop his skills and contribute to one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Josh Simmons’ path to the NFL, analyze his playing style, and explore why the Kansas City Chiefs selected him in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Additionally, we will discuss the impact he will have on the Chiefs’ offense and his potential to become one of the league’s best offensive linemen in the years to come.
Josh Simmons: A Rising Star from Ohio State
Josh Simmons’ football journey began in high school, where he was already recognized as a standout talent in the trenches. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing in at 315 pounds, Simmons possessed the ideal frame for an offensive tackle. His physical attributes were complemented by an innate understanding of the game, as well as an impressive work ethic that set him apart from other players.
Upon committing to Ohio State, Simmons joined one of the top football programs in the country. He was part of a legacy of elite offensive linemen who had come before him, and he quickly learned the importance of discipline, technique, and mental toughness. While he had raw potential, Simmons faced the challenge of refining his skills in a competitive environment. Ohio State’s coaching staff, led by head coach Ryan Day and offensive line coach Justin Frye, provided the perfect environment for Simmons to hone his craft.
In his first year, Simmons redshirted, allowing him to develop physically and mentally without the pressures of immediate game-time action. The decision to redshirt proved to be a smart one, as it gave Simmons a year to adjust to the college game and focus on his technique. By his second year, Simmons was a key contributor on the offensive line, and by his third season, he had solidified himself as one of the best young offensive tackles in the country.
During his time at Ohio State, Simmons was part of a national championship-winning team in 2025. The Buckeyes’ offensive line was one of the most dominant units in college football, and Simmons played a pivotal role in both the running and passing game. His ability to open up running lanes for Ohio State’s dynamic backs, combined with his pass-blocking skills, made him a mainstay on the field for the Buckeyes. His efforts were critical in helping the team secure its first College Football Playoff National Championship since 2014, and Simmons was a key reason behind the team’s high-powered offense that averaged over 500 yards per game.
Playing Style: A Dominant Force in the Trenches
Josh Simmons is a prototypical offensive tackle in both size and style of play. At 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame to protect the quarterback’s blindside and create space for running backs. His combination of size, strength, and agility is rare among offensive linemen, and it makes him a tough matchup for defensive linemen at any level of football.
One of Simmons’ most impressive qualities is his ability to control the line of scrimmage. Whether in pass protection or run blocking, Simmons is known for his ability to anchor down and hold off defenders. His strength allows him to absorb bull rushes from defensive linemen, while his quick feet and agility allow him to mirror the movements of edge rushers. His pass-blocking technique is polished, as he consistently maintains a wide base, uses his hands effectively, and keeps his feet moving to prevent defenders from getting past him.
When it comes to the run game, Simmons’ ability to create space is equally impressive. His size and power make him a force when it comes to blocking defensive tackles and linebackers in the running game. His ability to generate movement at the point of attack has been crucial in Ohio State’s success, particularly in creating holes for the running backs. Simmons has a nasty streak when it comes to blocking, often finishing plays with a relentless attitude that frustrates defenders. This tenacity and work ethic make him a strong asset in both short-yardage and goal-line situations.
What Makes Simmons a First-Round NFL Prospect?
There are several reasons why Josh Simmons was selected 32nd overall by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2025 NFL Draft. While Simmons possesses all the physical attributes that make him a top-tier offensive line prospect, it is his combination of skills, character, and the ability to fit into the Chiefs’ offensive system that makes him a perfect pick for the team.
- Physical Attributes and Athleticism
Simmons’ size and strength are obviously standout qualities, but it is his athleticism that truly separates him from many other offensive line prospects. His lateral quickness and ability to adjust on the fly make him effective in both pass protection and run blocking. Simmons’ footwork allows him to mirror defenders in pass protection, and he uses his strength to drive defenders off the ball when blocking in the running game. - Versatility
While Simmons is primarily a left tackle, his skills are versatile enough to allow him to play at different positions on the line. Whether he’s asked to play guard or right tackle, Simmons’ skill set enables him to adjust to the needs of his team. In today’s NFL, where injuries are common and offensive line rotations are frequent, Simmons’ ability to step in at multiple positions makes him a valuable asset. - Leadership and Football IQ
During his time at Ohio State, Simmons emerged as a leader on the offensive line. His understanding of defensive schemes, combined with his ability to make adjustments on the fly, allowed him to perform at a high level. His leadership, both on and off the field, is one of the intangibles that teams value in their draft prospects. Offensive linemen like Simmons, who have a high football IQ and the ability to lead by example, are crucial in helping to maintain offensive line cohesion and consistency. - Adaptability to the NFL System
Simmons is entering the NFL at a time when offensive line play is evolving. Teams are looking for linemen who are not just powerful, but who can move well in space and play with agility. The Kansas City Chiefs are known for their dynamic, fast-paced offense, led by the electrifying Patrick Mahomes. With his ability to keep defenders off the quarterback and clear paths for running backs, Simmons is a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ scheme. His skill set aligns with the Chiefs’ desire for linemen who can play both in the passing game and in the run game, offering versatility in various offensive situations.
Josh Simmons’ Fit with the Kansas City Chiefs
When the Kansas City Chiefs selected Josh Simmons with the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they secured a player who can immediately contribute to their offensive line. The Chiefs’ offensive scheme requires linemen who are not only capable of blocking defenders but who can also move quickly and protect their high-profile quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. Simmons fits that mold perfectly.
Mahomes is known for his ability to extend plays, often scrambling in and out of the pocket to create big plays down the field. For an offensive line, this means that they need to be agile and adaptable, capable of handling edge rushers and allowing Mahomes to move freely in the pocket. Simmons’ ability to mirror defenders and keep them at bay, combined with his foot speed, makes him an excellent fit for this type of system.
Additionally, Simmons will be joining an already strong offensive line in Kansas City, where he will have the opportunity to learn from experienced players and further develop his skills. The Chiefs have made significant strides in recent years to improve their offensive line, and Simmons’ addition will only bolster their efforts to protect Mahomes and open up running lanes for their backs.
As a first-round pick, there will be high expectations for Simmons, but with his skill set, work ethic, and leadership, he has all the tools needed to make an immediate impact in the NFL. Simmons’ selection by the Chiefs signals the beginning of a promising career for the young offensive tackle, and he is poised to become one of the best in the business.
A Bright Future Ahead
Josh Simmons’ selection by the Kansas City Chiefs with the 32nd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft marks the next chapter in a promising career. After an exceptional college career at Ohio State, which included a national championship and multiple accolades, Simmons is poised to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility makes him a perfect fit for the Chiefs’ offense, and his leadership and football IQ will only enhance his ability to contribute to one of the NFL’s top teams.
With the Chiefs’ dynamic offense, Simmons will have the opportunity to showcase his skills on a national stage. He has the tools to become a cornerstone of their offensive line for years to come, and his potential as a dominant force in both the passing and running game makes him one of the most exciting young prospects in the NFL. The future looks bright for Josh Simmons, and the Chiefs are lucky to have him on their roster.
