Chiefs to Start Undrafted Rookie Kahlil Benson at Left Tackle Against Broncos

Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson is expected to start at left tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs in Monday's season opener against the Denver Broncos.

Kansas City Chiefs left tackle Josh Simmons has been ruled out for Monday's season opener against the Denver Broncos due to a lower back injury that sidelined him for over three weeks. According to ESPN, undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson is expected to replace the 2025 first-round pick. Benson, a product of Indiana, will be the first undrafted rookie offensive player to start Week 1 under head coach Andy Reid since his tenure began in 2013.

Benson is tasked with protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes' blind side as the passer returns from a nine-month recovery following a torn ACL and LCL in his left knee suffered on Dec. 14, 2025. While Benson spent the majority of training camp at right tackle, five-year veteran Jaylon Moore is slated to start at that position instead. Mahomes stated on Thursday that he expects to play without limitations against a Denver defense featuring pass rusher Nik Bonitto and cornerback Pat Surtain II.

Coach Andy Reid noted on Thursday that the team has confidence in Benson's abilities despite the position shift. The rookie will face a Broncos unit projected to be among the best defenses in the NFL as Kansas City begins its 2026 campaign.