Isaiah Simmons's Best Path To A Roster Spot Is Through Special Teams

Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is a big fan of Isaiah Simmons. The former Arizona Cardinals and New York Giants linebacker combines versatility with rare physical traits — a combination that’s hard to find in a single NFL player, and Hafley knows just how valuable that makes him on the field.

"We're excited about getting him," Hafley said in May. "I loved him coming out of school; think a lot of us did. He's a big, fast, physical guy that can run, and he's made plays before, so we're hoping to put him in position to help him help us."

In late July, Hafley shared his vision for Simmons in the defense and highlighted the adaptability the former eight-overall pick out of Clemson would need to develop, which comes naturally for any player entering a new system. Early results from training camp were promising.

However, after two preseason games, Simmons has encountered some difficulties making the most of his opportunities.

Simmons was Green Bay’s second-lowest-graded defender in their 30-10 loss to the New York Jets and posted the lowest coverage grade on the team. He earned a 64.8 run-defense grade, but it was a forgettable night for him.

“He’s got to go out there and do it within our defense for us to feel confident to put him out there and be a key contributor to our defense,” Matt LaFleur said a day after the game. “I thought he got some good work in yesterday.”

Simmons struggled again against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday, looking lost in coverage at times and missing tackles. He now has one more opportunity next week against the Seattle Seahawks to try to earn a spot on the 53-man squad.

Simmons has been playing linebacker for the Packers, but it may be difficult for him to make the team solely at that position. Edgerrin Cooper, Quay Walker, Isaiah McDuffie, and Ty’Ron Hopper should all make the roster, and Kristian Welch has also had a strong preseason. Green Bay has carried five off-ball linebackers on the final roster over the past three seasons, and it looks like Simmons would be the sixth in line on this year’s team.

Simmons’ best chance of making the Final Cut is likely through special teams. He has 563 career snaps on teams and the speed to line up as a gunner. It’s rare to find a player in the NFL with Simmons’ combination of speed, versatility, and size, and the Packers are trying to be the team that fully taps into his potential.

Even if the Packers retain Simmons primarily as a special teamer, he could still serve as an emergency safety, given his experience at the position, while also providing depth at linebacker. That way, he could cover two roles on defense while continuing to be a valuable gunner on special teams.

Time is running out for Simmons. A strong performance against Seattle next week could help improve his stock and earn him a spot on the roster. Arguably, the Packers should keep him, regardless, given that he has the natural ability to become an impact player.