Former Ohio State Star Gets One of the Wildest Compliments You’ll Hear from an NFL Teammate

Josh Simmons is making noise at Kansas City Chiefs training camp, and one of his teammates just delivered a compliment that immediately stood out.

The former Ohio State offensive tackle, selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, is entering his second professional season after a rocky rookie year. Early returns from camp suggest he is healthier, stronger, and ready to take a step forward — and George Karlaftis made sure everyone noticed.

George Karlaftis Delivers Memorable Praise for Josh Simmons

Chiefs defensive end George Karlaftis offered a colorful description of Simmons during a recent media availability.

“Josh (Simmons) is a great player,” Karlaftis said. “You know, obviously had a great season last year, so that was out a few games and stuff like that. But you know, he’s a great player. You know, obviously, he’s strong as an Ox, and he’s got feet like a Ballerina. So you know, he’s very good and very talented. We’ve had our battles, and you know, we’ve talked, and iron sharpens iron. So, this is what this period is for us: getting better.”

“Strong as an ox” with “feet like a ballerina” is not the typical way an offensive lineman gets described. The combination points to rare traits: elite power paired with the footwork and agility needed to protect the edge at a high level.

Josh Simmons’ Path from Ohio State to the Chiefs

Simmons developed into a standout left tackle at Ohio State. He played a key role along the offensive line before a late-season injury limited him as a senior. Despite appearing in only six games during his final year in Columbus, he still earned honorable mention All-Big Ten recognition and was drafted 32nd overall by Kansas City.

His rookie season was also cut short. A wrist injury ended his year after eight games and eight starts. The limited sample left questions about his long-term durability, but it also created an opportunity for a full offseason of focused development.

Transformed Physique and Early Camp Reviews

Reports out of Chiefs camp indicate Simmons used the offseason to reshape his body. He is listed around 300 pounds while remaining lean and powerful. Teammates and observers have noted the physical transformation and the improved movement that comes with it.

Karlaftis’ comments reinforce the early positive reviews. Battling a quality edge rusher in practice every day is one of the better measuring sticks available in training camp, and the veteran defensive end clearly respects what Simmons brings to the field.

Why This Season Matters for Josh Simmons

Simmons enters a pivotal year. Kansas City is looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs, and stability at left tackle is a priority for protecting Patrick Mahomes. A healthy, productive season from Simmons would give the Chiefs a long-term building block on the offensive line.

For Simmons personally, staying on the field for a full 17-game schedule would go a long way toward solidifying his reputation as a reliable starter. The talent has never been in question. The next step is consistency and durability.

Bottom Line

George Karlaftis’ memorable description of Josh Simmons — “strong as an ox” with “feet like a ballerina” — captures the unique skill set the former Ohio State standout is showing in camp. Early returns are encouraging for a player still early in his NFL career.

If Simmons can stay healthy and continue building on the foundation he has laid, the Chiefs may have found a cornerstone at left tackle. The wild compliment is just the latest sign that people inside the building believe he is ready to take the next step.