Giants Land Versatile Athlete in Cardinals’ Simmons for 7th Rounder

Earlier this year, the Arizona Cardinals opted to decline Isaiah Simmons' 5th-year option. Despite being one of the most polarizing prospects in recent memory, Isaiah Simmons' career path has been bumpy, to say the least. The former number 8 overall pick in 2020 has played a plethora of positions spanning from interior linebacker to safety to corner, where he spent most of his time this past year..

While no one doubts the young player's athleticism, his effort and production on the field have left something to be desired. Simmons' play did see an uptick this past season. His PFF grade of 67.9 ( a career-best) may have been attributed to his first extended stay at slot corner. Seasons prior he had played mostly safety and interior linebacker, which resulted in subpar play by PFFs standard. He received grades of 59.9 and 51 respectively in his first two seasons, not what you'd like to see out of a top 10 pick.

Despite the uncertainty within Simmons' game, there is latent potential to be unlocked. New York knows they are getting a player whose minimal risk was well below the possible reward. If anyone can unleash Simmons’ dormant ability, it is Defensive Coordinator Wink Martindale. Expect Martindale to continue to use Simmons in various positions and blitz schemes as the season goes on.

I see this trade as a big win for both sides. Simmons gets a chance to revitalize his career in the Big Apple; the Giants can add an explosive young asset to their defense for minimal loss. If all goes to plan New York's defense should feel much improved with Simmons' ever-changing presence.