Clemson's Isaiah Simmons Reveals Player Comp NFL Teams Are Using for Him is a True Legend
By Scott Rogust
Isaiah Simmons opened the eyes of football fans everywhere during his performance in the 2020 CFP National Championship Game. Jaws dropped at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he posted a 40-yard dash time that was better than most running backs. Now, the former Clemson do-it-all defender is set to become a first-round selection in the NFL Draft, and he's received some high praise heading into the big night.
When speaking with ESPN's Josina Anderson, Simmons revealed that many have compared him to former Washington Redskins great Sean Taylor.
Isaiah Simmons (LB, Clemson, 6'4, 238lbs.) to me on the phone: “I’ve seen people compare me to all-time great Sean Taylor, so if that's somebody they are looking for, that would be a person that a kid like me would strive to go out and be like.”
— ig: josinaanderson (@JosinaAnderson) April 23, 2020
That's a true glowing endorsement for Simmons' abilities.
Just like Taylor, Simmons played like a heat-seeking missile at Clemson. He could tackle, defend passes, and get to the quarterback. This past season, Simmons posted 104 tackles (16.5 for loss), eight sacks, eight passes defensed, three interceptions and two forced fumbles.
Antonio Cromartie says he doesn't care that Isaiah Simmons "doesn't have a position", because he's always around the ball and reminds him of the late, great Sean Taylor. pic.twitter.com/VfWmoM5yng
— Matt Basinger (@MaineFinFan) March 11, 2020
Even with those insane numbers, draft experts have a wide projection as to where Simmons will be taken off the board in the first round due to not holding a true position. While many view that as a detriment, Simmons fits in today's NFL. Don't forget that Derwin James dropped to 17th overall to the Los Angeles Chargers in 2018 for this exact reason, and he's proven to be an amazing defender at the pro level.
Whoever lands Simmons on Thursday night is going to get a once in a generation talent and a true difference maker on the defensive side of the ball.