Chiefs prepare Kahlil Benson as Josh Simmons misses Monday opener

The Kansas City Chiefs are finalizing offensive line plans for their upcoming Monday night season opener against the Denver Broncos. Left tackle Josh Simmons remains unavailable for practice due to a back injury sustained during training camp and is unlikely to suit up for the game. Rookie Kahlil Benson is expected to take over at the blind side, with veteran Jaylon Moore shifting to the right tackle position. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who missed the preseason while recovering from a knee injury, is confirmed as the starter for the team's first regular-season contest since last December. Head coach Andy Reid emphasized that the team will field its five most capable linemen to manage the transition. How the altered offensive front performs against the Broncos' pass rush will serve as an immediate test for the unit early in the season.

• 6:24 PMYahoo Sports — Andy Reid Confirms Bad News for Chiefs’ Core Starters Days Before Broncos Clash
• 3:32 AMYahoo Sports — Andy Reid, Chiefs Devise New Plan to Shield Patrick Mahomes as Key O-Line Anchor Nears Week 1 Absence