Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Justin Simmons (Boston Col.) - 2016 NFL Draft Pick #98 by DEN

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Justin Simmons (2016 NFL Draft)

College: Boston College

Overview

Justin Simmons, a standout safety from Boston College, entered the 2016 NFL Draft with a solid reputation for his playmaking ability and versatility on the field. His performance in college showcased his potential to be an impactful player at the next level.

Strengths

• Ball Skills: Simmons demonstrated excellent ball skills throughout his college career, with the ability to make interceptions and break up passes.
• Versatility: He was capable of playing both safety positions and even lined up as a cornerback at times, showcasing his adaptability in different defensive schemes.
• Football IQ: His understanding of the game allowed him to read plays effectively, which contributed to his ability to anticipate the movements of opposing players.
• Physical Attributes: Standing at 6'2" and weighing around 202 pounds, Simmons possessed the ideal size for a safety, combined with good speed and agility.

Areas for Improvement

• Consistency: While he showed flashes of brilliance, there were moments where his play lacked consistency, particularly in tackling.
• Run Support: He needed to improve his physicality and aggressiveness when it came to supporting the run, as he sometimes shied away from contact.
• Coverage Skills: Although he had good ball skills, there were concerns about his ability to cover faster receivers effectively in one-on-one situations.

Pro Projection

Justin Simmons was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, with the potential to develop into a starting safety in the right system. His combination of size, athleticism, and intelligence made him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive backfield.

Simmons' potential and skill set indicated that he could become a valuable asset in the NFL, particularly for teams that prioritized versatile defensive backs.