Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has never been shy about his love for a good cheeseburger. He joked recently that he’s cut back on his favorite meal to fit into a tuxedo for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s wedding at Madison Square Garden — a high-profile event that’s already got the internet buzzing. But when it comes to his players, Reid’s dietary humor stops at the locker room door.
According to a report from NBC Sports, Reid is keeping a close eye on second-year left tackle Josh Simmons, a 6-foot-5 offensive lineman who surprised the coaching staff by revealing he currently weighs between 285 and 290 pounds. That makes Simmons one of the lightest offensive tackles in the entire NFL — a fact that has raised eyebrows given the league’s trend toward massive, 320-pound blockers.
Simmons has told the team he wants to bulk up to 300 pounds before training camp, but Reid made it clear he doesn’t want the young tackle adding any unnecessary weight. The head coach, speaking to reporters, specifically warned against gaining what he called ‘cheeseburger weight’ — the kind that slows you down without making you stronger.
Why Reid Isn’t Panicking About Simmons’ Frame
Reid praised Simmons as a unique and highly athletic player with elite strength and excellent natural leverage. Last season, despite his lighter frame, Simmons held his own against larger defenders, using technique and quickness rather than pure mass. The coach emphasized that functional health matters far more than the number on the scale.
Simmons originally weighed 317 pounds at the scouting combine before being drafted in the first round. Reid insists that exceeding 300 pounds is not a requirement for the young lineman, especially if it compromises his mobility or puts unnecessary strain on his joints. The team’s focus is on maintaining an optimized offensive line that can protect the franchise’s half-billion-dollar investment at quarterback.
Mahomes on Track for Training Camp Return
Speaking of that investment, Reid provided an encouraging update on superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is diligently rehabbing from a torn ACL he suffered late last season. The head coach praised Mahomes’ work ethic, noting that his recovery has been a steady progression and that the franchise player is on track to participate in training camp.
With Mahomes’ return looming and Simmons developing into a lighter, more agile blocker, the Chiefs’ offensive line looks to be evolving in a new direction. For now, Reid’s message is clear: leave the extra burgers on the sideline.
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