Summary

Jeffrey Simmons was selected in the 1st Round (#19 Overall) in the 2019 Draft out of Mississippi State University. Simmons is a high‑impact interior edge rusher whose combination of explosiveness, length, and power makes him one of the more dynamic defensive linemen in the NFL when healthy. Since entering the league, Simmons has shown the ability to disrupt backfields, generate pressures, and collapse pockets consistently. His game is built on athleticism and physical traits rather than technical refinement, which means his ceiling is extremely high, but inconsistency and injury history have limited his sustained elite production. If healthy, Simmons projects as a cornerstone defensive lineman capable of changing games with his presence.

Strengths

• Elite burst and explosiveness: Simmons can explode off the line, quickly engaging blockers and attacking the pocket. His first-step quickness often allows him to beat tackles in one-on-one situations.

• Length and power combination: At 6′4″ with long arms and 290 lbs, he can disengage blockers with reach and strength. His ability to push, rip, or swim through offensive linemen makes him a consistent backfield disruptor.

• Pass-rushing versatility: Simmons has shown he can generate pressure from multiple alignments, both as a 3‑technique and 4‑technique, giving defensive coordinators flexibility in schematic usage.

• Disruption and turnover potential: In his career, he’s been effective at forcing fumbles, batting balls at the line, and collapsing the pocket, creating opportunities for teammates.

• Athleticism for his size: Simmons is fast for an interior rusher and can chase down quarterbacks or running backs in pursuit across the field. His lateral mobility allows him to engage in stunts and twists effectively.

Weaknesses

• Injury history: Simmons has missed multiple games in his career due to knee injuries and other lower-body issues. Durability is a major concern and has limited his ability to maintain consistent production.

• Refinement / technical consistency: While explosive, he sometimes relies on athleticism instead of hand placement, pad level, or technique. Against elite offensive tackles, this can result in missed plays or blocks absorbed.

• Run defense — occasionally over-pursues: Simmons has a tendency to focus on pass-rush, which can leave gaps in run fits. While he can make plays in run support, discipline and assignment awareness can improve.

• Limited sample as a fully healthy starter: Due to injuries, he has not yet completed multiple consecutive seasons at full health, making it harder to predict long-term ceiling reliability.

• Penalties / aggression: Occasionally flagged for roughing or unnecessary contact in high-intensity rushes; disciplined refinement is needed to maximize availability.

Fit & Outlook

Simmons excels as an interior rusher in multiple front schemes — 4‑3, 3‑4 as 4‑technique, or heavy sub-packages where he can attack gaps. He is a true game‑changer if healthy. Floor is an above-average pass-rush interior lineman; but lets face it, he is already near his ceiling as a top-tier disruptive force and potential Pro Bowl defensive anchor. Health and consistency in technique, especially in run defense and finishing plays. If he stays on the field, Simmons has the potential to be a dominant, long-term defensive cornerstone.