Josh Simmons missed Kansas City's Week 6 win over Detroit due to a personal matter, opening the door for Jaylon Moore to start at left tackle. With Simmons out, the Chiefs leaned on Moore while Jawaan Taylor returned to full practice at right tackle. Andy Reid and GM Brett Veach deflected questions, keeping the situation private as KC moves to a 3-3 record and prepares for Las Vegas.

Taylor's healthy practice status and Moore's continued duties provide a modest lift for the protection unit, but the long-term impact hinges on Simmons' return timeline. The Chiefs host the Raiders next, creating a pivotal fantasy spotlight on the line protection, Mahomes' time to throw, and the run-pass balance up front.

Denver sits at 4-2 and faces a looming trade deadline, weighing a practical balance between upgrading needs and preserving draft capital. A PFF sweep lists seven potential targets (Andrews, Njoku, Davis, Myers, Brooks, Okonkwo, Adams) that could fit if the price is right, but Denver's immediate focus centers on shoring up the left-guard spot after Powers’ injury. Payton has signaled interest without urgency. Dre Greenlaw’s return status could tilt the scales, while Engram’s steady production keeps the offense potent even without a major overhaul.

With Greenlaw potentially back soon, Denver may remain a net buyer only if the value aligns and the price isn’t prohibitive. The Raiders-crossover remains unlikely, and a divisional trade would be a hurdle. The Broncos’ midseason assessment hinges on Greenlaw’s health and how well the line stabilizes with Peart and Powers out, as Engram and the pass game have already begun to click.

In the end, Denver’s biggest current hole—guard play—could drive a cautious approach: a modest upgrade rather than a blockbuster. The deadline, just under three weeks away, will reveal whether the roster is sharpened in time for a late-season push or kept intact to build with a full offseason under Payton.