The Arizona Cardinals have a plan for their first-round draft pick, linebacker Isaiah Simmons. Chosen eighth overall by the team in part because of his ability to play multiple positions, the Cardinals will have him focus on learning one position. He will, though, play in a variety of roles from the context of being an inside linebacker.
NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks praised the Cardinals for this approach.
I love this approach with young players. The transition from college to the NFL is tough, and freeing blue-chip players from mental clutter is the best way to help them play fast early in their careers. . .
Simmons should have his work cut out for him in Year 1 in an absolutely loaded NFC West. Encouraging him to get acclimated and comfortable at one position before adding more on his shoulders should not only help in his long-term development, but enable him to contribute immediately.
Simmons will also have to play himself into the rotation, as the Cardinals already have Jordan Hicks and De’Vondre Campbell in the starting lineup. It means Simmons will have to excel in certain roles to get expanded playing time.
If Simmons is what everyone believes he is, then the Cardinals will find ways to get him on the field and he will be an impactful player on defense.
This approach could help him be ready to be a full-time stud in 2021.
[vertical-gallery id=438101]
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
Ep. 267
[protected-iframe id=”682ebb6e7ef6b83ea73b8875d2f5241d-112738498-106269283″ info=”https://api.spreaker.com/v2/episodes/27243565/download.mp3″ ]
Ep. 266
[protected-iframe id=”bcb747d5fc8df3747b9f1187680b5056-112738498-106269283″ info=”https://api.spreaker.com/v2/episodes/26365268/download.mp3″ ]