Isaiah Simmons finally inks deal with Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals get their top draft pick under contract

Just before the start of rookie camp, the Arizona Cardinals got their deal done with their first round pick in linebacker Isaiah Simmons.  The deal was reported early Tuesday morning.

With still uncertainty how training camp and preseason will look, it was important to start getting draft picks signed so they don’t lose time with the veterans whenever they end up reporting.  Simmons deal reportedly was for a little over $20 million fully guaranteed.

The important part for a to[ draft pick is the signing bonus.  He will see over $12 million for that part of the contract.  With rookies slotted for certain salaries over their first four years, the signing bonus says it all.

The Cardinals reportedly will try and be creative with Simmons this season.  He is a linebacker by trade but the Cardinals will try to use him in different slots, although contrary to initial reports, Simmons should be a linebacker first and foremost.

The hard hitting Simmons will be a breath of fresh air for a core group that has struggled over the last few years.  Health of the linebackers has also been an issue over recent times as well.

Let’s just hope we get to see Simmons come September.  As of right now, the NFL and NFLPA are negotiating terms for getting camps open.  Players are rightfully concerned for their safety given the current pandemic.

It appears the preseason is going to be eliminated based on reports surfacing on Tuesday.  If that’s the case, fans won’t get a live look at Simmons until September 13th at the earliest.  We’re not holding our breath though.

However, it is great to see the Cardinals took care of the most important business ahead of whatever camp ends up being held.  The Cardinals will practice at State Farm Stadium but no fans will be allowed to attend this year.