Summary

Trenton Simpson was selected in Round 3 (#86 Overall) in the 2023 Draft out of Clemson University. Simpson is a modern linebacker prototype combining elite athleticism with positional versatility. At Clemson, he logged time rushing the passer, covering tight ends/running backs, and playing pursuit‑reads across the second level. His 4.43 sec 40‑yard dash, fluid hips, and range make him a threat in both run and pass defense. While his athletic traits give him a high ceiling, his instincts, block‑shedding technique, and baseline power were noted as developmental areas. Simpson projects as a versatile “weak‑side” or “SAM” type rather than a classic middle inside linebacker.

Strengths

• Top‑flight speed and sideline‑to‑sideline range: Simpson’s 40‑yard time (4.43 s) and lateral agility allow him to cover ground quickly and pursue from depth.

• Coverage ability for a linebacker: He displays fluid hips, ability to mirror backs/TEs in man or off coverage, and comfort in space. Bleacher Report

• Pass‑rush upside from linebacker depth: Used as a blitzer at Clemson, he shows burst, bend, and the ability to generate pressures.

• Athletic versatility / alignment flexibility: Simpson is capable of playing multiple linebacker roles (SAM, WILL, nickel) and can drop into coverage or play near the line.

• Pursuit & open‑field tackling ability: He has shown the ability to take good pursuit angles, close quickly and make plays in space. CBS Sports

Weaknesses

• Instincts and read‑react processing still developing: Simpson can be slow to trigger reads, mis‑diagnose plays and over‑react rather than stay disciplined.

• Block‑shedding and anchor strength concerns: While athletic, he lacks the mass and power of some off‑ball linebackers; engaging and shedding blocks from bigger players is a work in progress. Bleacher Report

• Tendency to over‑pursue or leave the assigned gap: His speed sometimes leads to overrunning plays, taking sub‑optimal angles, and leaving cut‑back lanes.

• Size/physicality for every‑down inside role ambiguous: At ~235 lbs and with external build traits, he may struggle in heavier base‑fronts or against heavier lead blocks. CBS Sports

• Ceiling tied to scheme fit and development path: Without refined instincts or stronger block‑engagement, his best early role may be sub‑package or specialized rather than full‑time three‑down starter.

Fit & Outlook

Simpson fits best in a defense that embraces hybrid linebacker roles—one that values coverage ability, pace and alignment flexibility over sheer size and traditional thumping. Ideal systems will deploy him in roles where he can use his speed and agility to match tight ends or running backs, blitz from the second level, drop into zone coverage, and rotate through nickel or sub‑package units. He is less optimally utilized in a defense that demands a traditional two‑gap, run‑stopping middle linebacker who must anchor the line of scrimmage every down. Outlook‑wise, his floor is that of a highly useful rotational linebacker who contributes on passing downs, serves as a nickel/SAM defender, and adds value on special teams while developing his craft. His upside is meaningful: if he sharpens his play‑recognition, improves his block‑engagement and adds functional strength, he has the potential to evolve into a multi‑down starter who thrives in space, covers, pressures and plays the run. The key for him will be consistent usage aligned with his strengths, development of complementary skills, and landing in a scheme that plays to his modern linebacker profile.