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Jordan Raanan, ESPN Staff Writer
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants have made a calculated trade just days before their preseason finale, acquiring Isaiah Simmons from the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for a seventh-round pick in 2024. This move presents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for the team.
Simmons, a 25-year-old player with immense talent, was previously drafted eighth overall by the Cardinals in 2020. However, his lack of a defined position has hindered his progress. In his second preseason game, Simmons played as a safety for the Cardinals, but he transitioned to the defensive back position this offseason.
For the Giants, Simmons will be utilized as a linebacker, taking advantage of his 6-foot-4, 238-pound frame. While he may not immediately secure the starting inside linebacker spot, his hybrid abilities as a linebacker/safety/rusher/blitzer align well with the defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s system.
Despite being described as a talented athlete with average football skills by one NFC executive, Simmons’ versatility and potential make him a perfect project for Martindale. Under Martindale’s “positionless defense,” the challenge lies in fully realizing Simmons’ capabilities.
In terms of his playing time with the Cardinals, Simmons spent 40% at outside linebacker, 23.3% at inside linebacker, and 26.6% at cornerback, particularly in the slot. This diverse experience influenced the Giants’ decision to trade for him, believing there is untapped potential to be explored.
While Simmons expressed a preference for safety, which is where he excelled during his time at Clemson, the Giants plan to deploy him primarily as a sub-package linebacker. They aim to leverage his athleticism and explosiveness within Martindale’s blitz-heavy scheme.
The Giants’ acquisition of Simmons for a seventh-round pick signals the league’s current perception of him. Additionally, his contract situation, entering his final year with the absence of a fifth-year option, further influenced the Cardinals’ decision to trade him.
Nevertheless, the Giants are solely focused on extracting the untapped talent they believe Simmons possesses. With 7.5 career sacks, four interceptions, and seven forced fumbles, he has certainly demonstrated his playmaking abilities.
Overall, the Giants are optimistic about Simmons’ potential impact and are eager to integrate him into their system. They hope that this time, things will click, and Simmons will flourish in his new role with the team.
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