The New York Giants have solidified their defensive lineup for the upcoming 2024 season by agreeing to terms with former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons. The announcement of Simmons’ return comes as a boost to the Giants’ defensive plans.
Simmons showcased his versatility last season, lining up at safety in Wink Martindale’s defensive scheme for the Giants. Over the course of 17 games, including four starts, he demonstrated his defensive prowess by tallying 50 tackles along with an interception, a sack, and three passes defended. Notably, Simmons limited opposing quarterbacks to a mere 59.3 passer rating in coverage.
The Giants’ announcement listed Simmons as both a safety and linebacker, highlighting his adaptability and suggesting a hybrid role under new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen’s scheme.
Simmons’ Versatility: Finding His Role with the New York Giants
During his tenure with the Arizona Cardinals, Simmons primarily played linebacker, amassing 105 tackles in 2021 and achieving a career-high four sacks in 2022. However, his role with the Cardinals was often uncertain, with the team struggling to find a defined position for him under Vance Joseph’s scheme.
Under Bowen’s guidance, Simmons seems to have found a more defined role, capable of providing coverage as a box safety or applying pressure as a linebacker. Bowen’s preference for versatile players positions Simmons to potentially fill a role akin to that of Malik Hooker in New York’s defense.
Despite the offseason addition of Jalen Mills at safety and the projected starting role for Jason Pinnock at the other safety spot, Simmons brings valuable competition and depth to the Giants’ defensive lineup. He could vie for the third safety position or contend for one of the starting roles while also offering versatility in slot coverage.
Moreover, Simmons will face competition from Micah McFadden for playing time at one of the outside linebacker positions, emphasizing his flexibility within the defense. As Bowen evaluates the defensive unit during summer preparations, Simmons’ role in specific sub-packages will likely be determined based on his performance and fit within the team’s defensive schemes.
