Take a quick glance at Simmons’ athletic profile and it’s easy to see why he’s such an exciting prospect. Beginning his Clemson career at S, Simmons moved into a hybrid LB/slot CB role as a Sophomore, then became the ultimate chess piece as a Junior. Logging more than 100 snaps at S, LB, slot CB, and EDGE, he didn’t just play every position, he excelled in every position, earning 80+ PFF grades in coverage, run defense, pass rushing, and tackling.
The frame and length of an EDGE, the speed and quickness of a WR, the coverage ability of a DB — Simmons has an incredibly diverse skill set that the NFL hasn’t exactly seen before, and should be utilized as such. Instead of a team trying to pigeon-hole him into a single position, his unique abilities should be maximized by moving him around based on matchups whether it be on a play-by-play, or game-by-game basis.
Pro Comp: S Derwin James (Los Angeles Chargers)
Projected Round: Top-10 pick
Prime Destinations: DET, NYG, CAR, JAX
OVERALL Grade: A