The New York Giants have made a bold move to enhance their defense by acquiring Isaiah Simmons in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals. In exchange for the versatile player, the Giants sent a seventh-round pick to Arizona. The deal has been confirmed by Paul Schwartz of The Post.
Simmons, who was selected as the eighth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, is widely regarded as one of the top athletes from his class. However, his value has dropped due to uncertainty surrounding his position. Last season, he primarily played as a slot cornerback for the Cardinals, but he also took snaps as a box defender, on the defensive line, as a wide cornerback, and even as a free safety.
Despite his ability to play multiple positions, Simmons didn’t fully thrive under the Cardinals’ previous defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. With Nick Rallis taking over the defensive coordinator role for Arizona, Simmons is hoping for a fresh start with the Giants.
In New York, Simmons is expected to fill a safety/linebacker hybrid role similar to what Landon Collins and Tony Jefferson have played in the past. Additionally, he may also have opportunities to contribute as a pass rusher in defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s system. The Giants’ coach Brian Daboll has expressed excitement about Simmons joining the team, highlighting his versatility and potential to make a significant impact in multiple roles.
One of the remarkable things about Simmons is his durability. Throughout his three-year career, he hasn’t missed a single game, which adds another layer of value to his profile.
At the age of 25, Simmons will be entering a contract year with the Giants. This serves as extra motivation for him to showcase his skills and prove himself on the field. With a manageable cap hit of $1.01 million, he brings both talent and cost-effectiveness to the team.
Giants fans can expect Simmons to arrive at the team’s facility as early as Friday, ready to contribute in various ways on the defensive end. His athleticism, versatility, and durability make him a valuable asset for New York as they seek to strengthen their defense for the upcoming season.
Overall, the Giants’ trade for Isaiah Simmons signifies their commitment to bolstering their defense and adding depth to their roster. With his ability to play multiple positions and his proven durability, Simmons has the potential to make a significant impact in New York. Giants fans can look forward to seeing him in action and hope that his addition will elevate the team’s performance on the field.
