Chris Simms (Texas) - 2003 NFL Draft Pick #97 by TB
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Chris Simms (2003 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Name: Chris Simms
- College: University of Texas
- Position: Quarterback
- Height: 6'4"
- Weight: 220 lbs
Overview:
Chris Simms entered the 2003 NFL Draft as one of the top quarterback prospects. Known for his strong arm and leadership skills, Simms had a successful collegiate career at Texas, where he demonstrated the ability to make all the throws and manage an offense effectively.
Strengths:
- Arm Strength: Simms possesses an exceptional arm, allowing him to make deep throws and fit passes into tight windows.
- Size and Frame: At 6'4" and 220 lbs, he has the ideal size for an NFL quarterback, providing him with a good presence in the pocket.
- Football IQ: He shows good understanding of the game, able to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure.
- Leadership: Simms was a team captain at Texas, demonstrating strong leadership qualities and the ability to inspire teammates.
Weaknesses:
- Consistency: Simms struggled with consistency at times during his college career, which raised concerns about his ability to perform at the professional level.
- Injury History: Previous injuries during his college career made some teams wary of his durability and long-term viability as a starter.
- Mechanics: While he has a strong arm, there were questions about his throwing mechanics and footwork, which could affect accuracy.
Projected Draft Position:
Simms was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 2003 NFL Draft, with potential for a team seeking a quarterback to develop into a starter. Teams were intrigued by his upside but cautious of the inconsistencies shown during his college tenure.
Conclusion:
Chris Simms was viewed as a talented quarterback with the potential to succeed in the NFL. However, concerns over his consistency and injury history led to a range of opinions on his draft stock. Teams would need to weigh his physical gifts against the risks associated with his performance in college.