Few Arizona Cardinals have improved as much as Isaiah Simmons
By Sion Fawkes
The Arizona Cardinals have been beaten and battered this season. One player who has progressed, however, is star backer Isaiah Simmons.
Just a couple of months back, I was advocating for the Arizona Cardinals to admit their mistake and trade former first round pick Isaiah Simmons. Earlier this season, the star backer who has seen 429 snaps at corner and safety this season looked completely lost, so naturally, I said, “By all means, trade him for Bradley Chubb.”
One reason Simmons struggled so much could have stemmed from his marginal practice habits which translated to poor play on the field. After getting benched, however, Simmons got the message, and his since steadily evolved to a high level. While he still isn’t a Pro Bowler, the third-year player has enjoyed a vastly improved game.
Isaiah Simmons has finally become a staple for the Arizona Cardinals
This week, he gets a chance to fulfill a Budda Baker-sized role at safety along with NFL lifer Chris Banjo. Simmons, whose 85 tackles ranks fourth on the team, will look to hit 100 for the second straight year.
But he has been more than just a tackling machine since returning the lineup as a full-time starter. He has two interceptions, including a pick six. Simmons also has two forced fumbles, seven passes defensed, three sacks, and a fumble recovery.
Sure, it would be great to see him invade the backfield more and become a nightmare for both quarterbacks and running backs. But he has taken small, but steady steps to improve his game in 2022, and you can look for a more well-rounded Isaiah Simmons in 2023.
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Overall, if Simmons plays well in his role at safety during the final two games, expect the Arizona Cardinals to pick up his fifth-year option. If I were to make a prediction, I’m going to say the Redbirds will indeed pick it up, thanks to the improvement he has shown this season.
Article Source: Arizona Cardinals confident Isaiah Simmons can help fill Budda Baker void by Tyler Drake
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