Arizona Cardinals explain how Simmons will be used

The Arizona Cardinals drafted linebacker Isaiah Simmons from Clemson with their first round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft

For the most part, Arizona Cardinals fans were pretty excited to see linebacker Isaiah Simmons drafted at number 8.  Some felt like they should have gone offensive line instead.

The one thing all fans could get behind about Simmons though was just how versatile he was at Clemson.  He could play just about anywhere on the defense.

There were whispers he would play at safety along with Budda Baker.  Some believe he could move to wherever he was needed.

Well, according to Cardinals defensive coordinator Vance Joseph on Tuesday, it sure sounds like the Cardinals plan to use him as a linebacker.  He did say he could be used around the defense as needed though.

So Joseph commits to him being a linebacker but throws in the chance at some safety?  Which is it?   Very interesting comments from a guy many fans feel like is already walking a tight rope in Arizona.

A thought comes to mind here.  If they want to use his versatility, why commit him to one spot but say he’ll play some safety or “around” the defense?

At this point it’s hard to say.  The calendar hasn’t even turned to May yet.  He’s been with the Cardinals all of four days right now.

It could be a bit of sportsmanship but why pigeonhole a player with his talent and versatility so very early?  Not sure what they have to lose by just saying they have some plans where to play him but really don’t want to divulge that at the moment?

Simmons will still be a star.  Linebacker is definitely a necessity.  But let’s remember, the defense is the biggest reason why the Cardinals lost a number of games last season.

For now, we can only hope Joseph knows what he is doing.  If they end up not using Simmons’ versatility and they have another poor showing on defense like they did in 2019, there will be a lot of explaining to do.