Jacksonville Jaguars: Rating the top LB candidates of the NFL Draft
Isaiah Simmons – Clemson
The Jacksonville Jaguars are coming off of a disappointing season last year. The biggest disappointment in my eyes was the defense’s inability to stop the run. enter 6’4″, 240-pound freak of nature Isaiah Simmons. The hype of Simmons couldn’t be higher, after yet another championship game appearance, Simmons rocked the Combine.
I have never seen a linebacker move so quickly with so much size. He is a faster, stronger, and bigger version of Telvin Smith.
What makes Simmons so special? Well aside from the physical attributes like running a 4.39 40 yard dash at the NFL Combine according to NFL.com, Simmons is intelligent and versatile. He is a leader, and he was part of one of the nation’s best defenses. He fits perfectly into Jacksonville’s scheme. The only issue with Simmons is that he may not be available with the ninth overall pick.
More from Jaguars Draft
- Jacksonville Jaguars fortify secondary in 4-round 2023 Post-Combine NFL Mock Draft
- The Jaguars may look for edge rushers with pick 24
- The Jacksonville Jaguars got so lucky with the 2021 NFL Draft
- Jaguars fortify OL with Jaelyn Duncan in CBS Sports’ 2023 NFL Mock Draft
- Jacksonville Jaguars don’t need to trade up in the 2023 NFL Draft to land a cornerback
However, we were saying the same thing about Josh Allen last year, and that worked out wonderfully.
Are there any worries about him? Sure, there are always worries, besides the fact he doesn’t fall to Jacksonville at times Simmons was confused in coverage. He at times takes poor angles and finds himself out of position. He needs to fill out a bit more to maximize his potential and play with a bit more strength.
All these issues can easily be fixed with proper coaching and training. I think that if he falls to Jacksonville, they have no choice but to take him.
Prospect Grade: A+
NFL Comparison: Darius Leonard
Strengths: Speed, Athleticism, Coverage Ability
Weaknesses: Angles, Assignments