Justin Simmons is an impressive prospect. He has unique size for a safety, standing tall at 6'3" and weighing 201 lbs.
Simmons is a sure tackler. He makes tackles consistently and displays good form. Despite his size, he isn't really a hard hitter, which is fine given his other special abilities. These abilities are really what make him the great prospect that he is.
Simmons displays great range and athleticism. In addition to his range, he is simply a playmaker. He makes great plays on the ball.
Here is an example of his great range, versus one of the best teams and best quarterbacks in the nation: Click Me
Here is an example of his playmaking skills against Notre Dame this season: Click Me
Finally, here is an example of both his range and his playmaking ability: Click Me
The aspect of Simmons' game that is perhaps his most important, is his intelligence. Not only can he recognize plays quickly, he directs his teammates where to line up pre-snap. Play recogniton is huge for a safety, and Simmons checks the box in that category.
Simmons' greatest weakness is man coverage, but he even does a serviceable job at that. He is as close to a complete package as you can get. He is a round 1 talent that is being underrated by most. This is most likely due to the fact that he didn't attend a high-profile college, which is an unfair distinction to put on him. Any team that drafts him should be happy to have him.
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