New York Giants: Isaiah Simmons the New Top Defensive Draft Prospect

The New York Giants came out victorious in a thrilling Week 16 overtime matchup on the road against the Washington Redskins. This game seemed quite meaningless, given that both teams were 3-11 heading into the contest. But in actuality, the game had extreme draft implications.

The Giants held the second overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft before Sunday’s contest. But after beating the Redskins, the Giants fell to the fourth pick, locking Washington in at number two. This draft order, of course, could change in Week 17, but it seems like the Giants will not be drafting in range of Chase Young anymore.

Have no fear, Giants fans. This is a loaded draft class. There will be plenty of defensive playmakers not named Chase Young available for New York with their top-five or top-ten pick. One prospect to keep an eye on is Clemson’s, Isaiah Simmons. 

Isaiah Simmons Stats and Highlights

Isaiah Simmons is the most versatile player in college football. This year, Simmons played 104 snaps on the defensive line, 203 snaps as a box linebacker, 230 snaps as a slot cornerback, 106 snaps at free safety, and he even played 6 snaps at wide cornerback (Pro Football Focus). Isaiah has the athletic ability to line up and make an impact anywhere on the defense.

He will be listed as a linebacker in this year’s draft, as that is his primary position, but Isaiah Simmons will make plays from any position. In his junior 2019 season, Clemson’s playmaking defender has totaled 93 tackles in 13 games. Additionally, Simmons has driven opposing offenses backward with 14.5 tackles for loss and 7 sacks. Isaiah has been a playmaker in coverage too, with 2 interceptions and 6 passes defended.

According to The Draft Network, “At 6-foot-4, 240 pounds with 4.4 speed, Simmons has the potential to be a centerpiece for a defensive game plan when it comes to man coverage roles. He is the kind of player who can allow a team to get aggressive in its scheme because of his range.”

The New York Giants have lacked talent at the linebacker position for years now. That could change this offseason. If the Giants are lucky enough to land Isaiah Simmons in the 2020 NFL Draft, they will get an instant-impact, playmaker on defense. He would boost New York’s pass-rush, run-defense, and pass-defense. Isaiah Simmons is the definition of versatility and would be a home-run selection for the New York Giants in 2020.