Isaiah Simmons Joins Panthers’ Practice Squad Amid Injury Crisis
Former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons is set to make waves in the NFL once again, this time with the Carolina Panthers. The team officially announced his signing to their practice squad, a move prompted by a series of injuries that have left Carolina in need of depth at the position. After being released by the Green Bay Packers earlier this season, Simmons had been a free agent, waiting for the right opportunity to revitalize his career.
Simmons’ Journey from Arizona to Carolina
Drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in 2020, Simmons was heralded as a “unicorn” for his incredible versatility. His college career at Clemson showcased his ability to excel in multiple roles, ranging from linebacker to edge rusher and defensive back. This unique skill set made him a coveted prospect for defensive coordinators, who envisioned him transforming their defenses.
However, Simmons’ time in Arizona was tumultuous. He played three seasons with the Cardinals, where he initially thrived at linebacker. Unfortunately, his final year in Arizona saw him shifted into a slot corner role, a transition that limited his effectiveness. When Jonathan Gannon took over as head coach in 2023, Simmons struggled to find his footing and was subsequently traded to the New York Giants for a seventh-round pick before the regular season began.
Reflecting on the Cardinals’ Approach
Criticism of the Cardinals’ management of Simmons has been a common theme among analysts and fans alike. Many believe the team’s decision to frequently change his position hindered his development. Simmons himself echoed this sentiment following his release from Green Bay, sharing his struggles with the constant positional shifts.
“I think really what I ran into most of my career is everybody wants me to do everything as opposed to letting me get really good at one thing first,” he stated. “I fully believe in Haf’s plan. He’s letting me just lock in and learn a small portion first before we even think about expanding to anything else. That’s something I really appreciate because I never really had that opportunity to really just hone in on one position. It’s hard enough to get into the NFL let alone stay, as well as be effective at a position.”
Despite his hopes for a more focused role, Simmons was ultimately released by the Packers during final roster cuts, leaving many to ponder whether the Cardinals truly failed to unlock his potential.
A New Chapter with the Panthers
Now, as Simmons joins the Panthers, he faces yet another opportunity to redefine his career. With a chance to contribute amid the Panthers’ injury crisis, the eyes of the NFL community will be on him as he seeks to capitalize on this fresh start. While questions linger about his past, Simmons has the potential to emerge as a key player if he can find stability in his role. The Carolina Panthers may just be the team to help him do that.
