2020 NFL Draft: Putting a letter grade on all 32 first-round picks
Clemson. Isaiah Simmons. 32. Combine Performance. Pick Analysis. LB/S. 8. player
Isaiah Simmons is one of the most polarizing prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft class. He is undoubtedly an impact player on the defensive side of the ball, but his lack of an obvious position makes him a tough evaluation. Instead of worrying about which specific position he will play, I look at Simmons’ versatility as a plus. With the right team, this guy a chance to be an absolute superstar at the next level, and I think he may have landed with the right team.
The Arizona Cardinals are a forward-thinking organization and they are not afraid to step out of the norm to get the most out of their players. Kliff Kingsbury has put together an exciting offensive attack, led by star quarterback Kyler Murray and now they have found their defensive leader in Simmons.
Related Story. Analyzing Simmons to Arizona. light
Simmons can legitimately do it all on the defensive side of the ball. He is a fantastic athlete who shows tremendous natural instincts in coverage. He is a high-level man-to-man defender and has shown the ability to make an impact in short and deep-zone coverage. While his block shed ability is not ideal, Simmons uses his quickness and athleticism well in the box and is a willing tackler at all times.
The Cardinals are going to have to get creative with Simmons. He is not a guy who you stick at middle linebacker and give him standard responsibilities at the position. It is going to be up to defensive coordinator Vance Joseph to move Simmons all around the field and use his versatility and overall skill-set as a weapon. Simmons is the perfect defensive player for the modern NFL and has unlimited upside if he is used correctly. Love this pick for Arizona.