Ohio State OT Josh Simmons declares for NFL draft, expected to be high first-round pick

Alex Parker

u/alex

Josh Simmons, Ohio State offensive tackle, declares for NFL draft after recovering from knee surgery.

Why it matters: Simmons' decision to enter the NFL draft has significant implications for his future career and could impact team strategies in the draft.

What's new: Josh Simmons, the talented offensive tackle from Ohio State, has officially declared for the NFL draft, according to his agent Drew Rosenhaus.

Why it matters: Simmons' entry into the draft adds another highly regarded prospect to the already competitive pool of offensive tackles available, potentially influencing team decisions in the draft.

  • Simmons underwent season-ending knee surgery following an injury sustained during a game against Oregon. However, his agent assures that he will be fully cleared for practice by the start of NFL training camp.
  • Despite his injury, Simmons is expected to be a high-first-round pick due to his exceptional talent and previous performances as one of the top offensive tackles in college football.

By the numbers: Prior to his injury, Simmons had an impressive record, not allowing a single sack during the season. This statistic underscores his skill and value as a pass protector.

Yes, but: While Simmons performance on the field has been outstanding, teams may have concerns about his recovery from the knee surgery and how it might impact his long-term durability.

What to watch: As the NFL draft approaches, keep an eye on how teams evaluate Simmons' medical reports and weigh the potential risks and rewards of selecting him in the first round.

What's next: With his declaration for the draft, Simmons will now focus on preparing for the pre-draft process, including the NFL Combine and individual team workouts.

The bottom line: Despite his injury, Simmons remains an enticing prospect for NFL teams, thanks to his impressive skills and track record as a dominant offensive tackle. The upcoming draft will determine where his professional journey begins.