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Arizona Cardinals: Grading the 2020 NFL Draft

By Scott Allen

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 01: Isaiah Simmons #11 of the Clemson Tigers reacts against the Pittsburgh Panthers in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 01: Isaiah Simmons #11 of the Clemson Tigers reacts against the Pittsburgh Panthers in the first quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on December 1, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 02: Isaiah Simmons #11 of the Clemson Tigers runs with the ball after an interception against the Wofford Terriers during their game at Memorial Stadium on November 02, 2019 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 02: Isaiah Simmons #11 of the Clemson Tigers runs with the ball after an interception against the Wofford Terriers during their game at Memorial Stadium on November 02, 2019 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson

Simmons was a top-5 guy on the Arizona Cardinals big board.  A number of people were surprised he lasted as long as the 8th pick for the Cardinals.

Some people felt like he wasn’t the best choice for the Cardinals but in reality the Cardinals had to take him as he was most definitely the best available player for Keim.  Simmons also fits a need for them.

His versatility will come into play immediately.  Though officially listed as a linebacker he could play safety as well.

His speed, athleticism, and intangibles will certainly be a valuable asset for defensive coordinator Vance Joseph.  The Cardinals did the best they could here to give the defense a player who has the potential to be a star in the NFL.

Yes, Simmons is not an offensive lineman, but they rolled the dice and as we found out later, they took care of the line.  Simmons a great pick here.

Grade: A

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