2020 NFL Draft: Clemson IOL John Simpson scouting report

A scouting report for former Clemson interior offensive lineman and 2020 NFL Draft prospect, John Simpson. 

We all continue to hear about the offensive tackles in this 2020 NFL Draft class. Andrew Thomas, Mekhi Becton, Jedrick Wills, Tristan Wirfs, I could go on. There’s surely no denying the talent of these behemoths on the outside; however, we simply can’t forget about the players who support the foundation of the line of scrimmage from the inside: Guards.

John Simpson (#74) played at the left guard position for Clemson. He will inevitably be the first offensive lineman to be taken from Clemson since the 2014 draft. A fact that is truly shocking considering the domination Clemson football has demonstrated over the years in the NCAA. Anyhow, It’s time to evaluate.

Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 321 pounds

Strengths

John Simpson was one of the more under-the-radar prospects who caught my eye on the NFL Scouting Combine broadcast and results. His 11-plus-inch hand measurements were jaw-dropping, to say the least, ranking in the 98th percentile for offensive linemen in Indianapolis. He didn’t stop impressing there, as he busted out 34 bench reps, making the 93rd percentile even with 34-inch arms.

That raw strength certainly shows on film. Simpson is strong and it’s visible in his anchor ability as he does not get driven back and stays stout. It would be unwise to bull rush this man.  Possesses an ideal frame that he’ll use to his advantage.

He had some excellent reps in the passing game, commanding the pocket as he was able to follow and throw defenders entering the backfield out of the proximity. Did a real nice job protecting the left side of Clemson quarterback, Trevor Lawrence. Simpson has superb awareness of his surroundings as he never unknowingly lets blitzing defenders slip through the gaps.

As do most guards, Simpson specializes in making an impact via the running game. He’s a nasty blocker who finishes up his assignments with tenacity. He has the speed and range to make and maintain blocks upfield. Simpson is flawless with the placement of his heavy hands and plays with good lateral speed in tight space. Packs along a fantastic motor for a man of his size.

The former rhino for the Clemson Tigers excels in gaining leverage on down blocks with utilization from his tremendous footwork and length. He continues to keep his feet moving until that whistle blows. Simpson was dynamic at maneuvering and twisting defensive tackles east and west to open up pathways for his running back, Travis Etienne, who commonly broke through the wall for over 1,600 rushing yards last year.

Simpson led the offensive line group for Clemson, which allowed just 18 sacks (11th in FBS) as they made another National Championship appearance. He was only responsible for just eight quarterback pressures in 277 passing snaps. Simpson stayed healthy for the majority of his time as a starter last season. Last year, he became the only guard in the NCAA to earn consensus first-team All-American. He’s honestly just a really consistent player.

Weaknesses

There are reasons to why Simpson is not considered first or even second-round talent in the 2020 NFL Draft.

For starters, Simpson lacks functional power. He tends to lunge and lean when he feels overpowered. He struggles to drive defensive lineman back due to the absence of optimal leg drive. He can often be seen with a high hat level and needs to keep knees bent and feet under his shoulders. Needs to create more thump on his initial contact.

Simpson’s biggest weakness is speed. This was shown at the Senior Bowl against first-round defensive tackle prospect Javon Kinlaw, who put a clinic on Simpson. On film, you’ll typically see him get beat off the jump as he tends to be late in rising off of the snap. He will likely have a hard time with defenders who are quick off the ball.

Simpson must learn how to get square against defenders on pulls and second-level blocks. It’s bittersweet, but he seems too urgent to reach those linebacker responsibilities and will whiff with lousy hand placement. All of these elements have negatively contributed to the guard’s 2020 NFL Draft stock.

Conclusion and 2020 NFL Draft Projection

Overall, the tape shows why John Simpson deserves to be selected in the 2020 NFL Draft. He knows how to take advantage of his pure brute strength and size to win at the point of attack. He’s more strength than power but prospers by gripping defenders in place with precise balance. Has some polishing up to do but to me, he’s a late-round gem with a multitude of traits and potential. I project Simpson as a third to fourth round talent in the 2020 NFL Draft.