NFL Notebook Week 9: MVP race, playoff picture, awards and more
By Zach Cohen
Draft Spotlight
Every week, I’ll dissect a college football player who recently grabbed the spotlight and what his future holds in the NFL. This week, I’ll be looking at (something about him)
Who: Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson
What Works
- Agility
- Athleticism
- Ball skills
- Explosiveness
- Length
- Man coverage
- Pass coverage
- Quickness
- Tackling
- Versatile
What Needs Work
- Consistent instincts
- Position concerns
- Size concerns (6-2, 225 pounds)
- Strength concerns
The Scout’s Opinion
"“Isaiah Simmons started his Clemson career at safety—you might remember him dominating in the team’s win over Alabama in the 2019 CFP National Championship—before moving down in the box to linebacker. At 6’4″ and 230 pounds, Simmons has unique skills perfectly suited for the NFL. He can play the run with fantastic speed to the sideline, line up in slot coverage, rush off the edge and play in deep coverage. As teams start to try to take away run-pass options, running quarterbacks and quick passing over the middle, linebackers like Simmons will become even more coveted.” – Matt Miller, Bleacher Report"
Outlook: Simmons is a true Swiss Army knife because he can play multiple positions due to his size and versatility. Of course, some teams with more defined, simpler defensive roles won’t be high on Simmons.
Early Projection: Top-15 Pick