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Justin Simmons, S, Boston College: 2016 NFL Draft Scouting Report

By George Stockburger

Oct 25, 2014; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back Justin Simmons (27) reacts after intercepting a pass late in the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Boston College defeated Wake Forest 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 25, 2014; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Boston College Eagles defensive back Justin Simmons (27) reacts after intercepting a pass late in the fourth quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at BB&T Field. Boston College defeated Wake Forest 23-17. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /
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While not a name that overwhelms you at first, the play of Boston College safety Justin Simmons is one that should be known to draft enthusiasts everywhere.

Starting his career as a cornerback, Simmons has transitioned well to safety and has the tools to play on either the strong or free side.

His participation on special teams makes him even more valuable.

Here is a close look at Boston College defensive back Justin Simmons and what his draft stock projects to be for this spring’s NFL Draft.

Measureables

Height: 6’3

Weight: 198 lbs

Strengths

There are a lot of things I love about Justin Simmons and his game. First off is he has decent athleticism and speed in the secondary. He uses both of those to produce good range and take excellent angles to the ball carrier. Those angles come from reading the quarterbacks eyes, anticipating plays, and reading the field in front of him.

Simmons is also a sure-tackler. He consistently wraps receivers up and brings them down with his long arms. He uses those long arms to force turnovers, which he did multiple times against Notre Dame in 2015.

He will also play as a gunner on special teams, making his value even higher.

Weaknesses

There aren’t too many issues that Simmons has to deal with. His footwork at the Shrine Game was reportedly a bit inconsistent, but that can be expected from most college players. Change of direction has also been something scouts notice due to tight hips, but his strong tackling and athleticism make up for it.

Adding a couple more pounds wouldn’t hurt him either to fill out his frame.

Final Thoughts

Simmons is a quiet name on the NFL Draft table right now, but a strong Combine performance could shed some light on his talent. I’ve seen Simmons projected into the sixth round, but I would take him much higher than that. I’ve also seen him projected as a free safety, although I can see him playing as a strong safety as well with his strong tackles.

I would take Justin Simmons late on day two and maybe consider him in the middle of the third round if the options are growing slim. He would be my starting strong tackle on day one should my team draft him. Tennessee, Denver, and New Orleans are viable options for him.

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