Chiefs coach Andy Reid identified Josh Simmons' lingering back injury Wednesday as a bulging disc in his lower back, giving a clearer explanation for the left tackle's absence through Kansas City's first three games. Reid said Simmons would not practice Wednesday, although he is progressing in his rehabilitation.
The injury has affected strength in Simmons' leg, Reid said. The coach does not currently expect surgery to be necessary, but he has not set a return date. That leaves Kansas City preparing for its trip to Las Vegas with the same uncertainty at left tackle that it has managed since the preseason.
Simmons has remained on the active roster. Reid said the uncertain recovery timeline was part of the decision to avoid injured reserve, which would have required a minimum four-game absence. Remaining off that list has preserved flexibility; it has not produced an earlier return to the field.
