What happened: A back injury sidelines Simmons, while defensive back Chamarri Conner will also miss the game with a knee injury. Kansas City lists no other players with game-status designations. [Chiefs injury report](https://www.chiefs.com/news/week-1-injury-report-broncos-vs-chiefs-2026)

Why it matters: Patrick Mahomes returns after tearing his ACL in December 2025, putting protection of his blind side under immediate scrutiny. Benson takes the left-tackle assignment against the defending division champion.

What to watch: Watch how Kansas City supports Benson in pass protection when the opener kicks off Sept. 14 at 8:15 p.m. ET.