Chiefs first-round pick Josh Simmons puts in some work at rookie minicamp

While Simmons was limited, coach Andy Reid came away impressed

The Chiefs used a first-round pick on tackle Josh Simmons during the recently concluded NFL draft knowing he continues to recover from a torn patellar tendon suffered in October 24.

Simmons, however, surprised the viewing media during the weekend’s rookie minicamp when he was spotted on the practice field with his helmet on Saturday and Sunday.

Chiefs coach Andy Reid gave his impressions on what he saw out of the offensive lineman.

“He’s moving around well,” Reid said Sunday. “I was surprised at how well he was doing out there, moving. He looks like he’s comfortable with it.”

While the head coach’s comments are positive, Simmons’ ability to be on the field doesn’t necessarily mean the Chiefs expect him to be fully ready for organized team activities (OTAs) in late May.

The Chiefs held back on Simmons over the past two days by limiting his activity on the football field for a reason.

“Josh is doing mostly the individual work,” Reid explained. “We try to keep him out of the team stuff if we’re going against a defense, so just taking it slow here.”

General manager Brett Veach said after the selection of Simmons in the first round that the Chiefs “will be smart” when it comes to easing in their future starting left tackle.

And Simmons’ workload during rookie minicamp appears to be all part of the Chiefs’ plan.

Nevertheless, it’s so far, so good at this stage of the offseason workout program.

“Listen, he looks like he’s got some talent there,” Reid said. “That’s a good thing, right, for what we can do. So, that’s a plus.”