Undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson to start at left tackle for Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid confirmed that undrafted rookie Kahlil Benson will start at left tackle for the team's season opener against the Denver Broncos on Monday, Sept. 14. Benson takes the position while expected starter Josh Simmons is listed as doubtful due to a back injury. The Chiefs are tasked with protecting quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who is returning from an ACL tear. Benson played at Indiana before joining the Chiefs. Elsewhere in the league, several other Indiana rookies are preparing for their professional debuts this weekend. Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, will serve as the backup quarterback for the Las Vegas Raiders. Meanwhile, the New York Jets expect rookie Omar Cooper Jr. to start when they visit the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, Sept. 13.

• 8:48 AMYahoo Sports — Indiana football undrafted rookie to start at left tackle for Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1