Contract Controversy: Isaiah Simmons Fires Back After Giants Pass on Extension

Isaiah Simmons: Who Is He?

A Linebacker Fueled by Motivation and a Fresh Start with the Packers

Isaiah Simmons burst onto the NFL scene with considerable promise. Selected eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft, the former Clemson standout was expected to be a versatile weapon for the defense.¹

Known for his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism, Simmons could line up at multiple positions, from linebacker to safety, and even as a pass rusher.

During his three seasons in Arizona, Simmons displayed flashes of his potential. He was often praised for his adaptability and athletic instincts, though questions remained about how best to use him in the Cardinals’ defensive schemes.

Despite putting up decent numbers, including over 200 total tackles and multiple forced turnovers across his time in Arizona, the fit never seemed perfect. By the end of the 2022 season, it became increasingly clear that the Cardinals were moving in a different direction.

I get searched every single time I go through security in the airport 😒

— Isaiah Simmons (@isaiahsimmons25) May 5, 2025

A Brief Tenure with the Giants

Following the 2022 campaign, the Arizona Cardinals traded Simmons to the New York Giants. It was seen as a low-risk move by the Giants, who hoped to tap into Simmons’ upside without a significant financial commitment.

He played the 2023 season under the terms of his rookie deal, and though he showed flashes of his playmaking ability, the results were somewhat mixed.

In his debut season with the Giants, Simmons totaled 50 tackles, two tackles for loss, and 1.0 sacks. He appeared in all 17 games, often in rotational roles or on special teams.

While he was not the star of the defense, he remained a consistent presence on the field and provided depth to a struggling team.

Impressed enough to bring him back, the Giants signed him to a one-year, $2 million deal for the 2024 season.

However, that deal proved to be short-lived in terms of long-term commitment. By the end of a disastrous 3-14 season, the Giants chose not to offer Simmons an extension.

Isaiah Simmons: Finds Motivation in Rejection

Despite the Giants’ decision not to extend his contract, Isaiah Simmons has remained upbeat.²

In a recent media session following Green Bay Packers’ minicamp, Simmons shared his thoughts on being passed over by New York.

“I’m actually very grateful for New York for what they did,” Simmons told reporters. “They lit a fire under me, and I’m ready to go.”

Rather than taking the non-renewal as a personal affront, Simmons is channeling the experience into motivation.

His attitude has been one of resilience and focus. It’s clear he believes he has much more to offer and views the upcoming season with the Packers as a golden opportunity to prove himself.

The Green Bay Opportunity

In April 2025, Simmons signed with the Green Bay Packers, marking the next chapter of his NFL career. The Packers, who have long been in search of dynamic linebacking depth, seem like a promising landing spot for Simmons.

Known for their strong developmental system and a young, aggressive defense under coordinator Jeff Hafley, Green Bay might be the perfect environment for Simmons to flourish.

His versatility fits well into a defense that values hybrid players capable of disrupting plays from multiple positions.

With the linebacker room not as crowded as other franchises, Simmons will likely compete for meaningful snaps.

The Packers are expected to utilize his unique skillset more efficiently, potentially deploying him in coverage situations, as a blitzer, and in sub-packages where his athleticism can shine.

Why the Packers Believe in Him

Simmons’ signing wasn’t just a move to fill roster space; it was strategic. The Packers were reportedly intrigued by Simmons’ raw physical tools and the potential for a breakout season.

At 6-foot-4 and 238 pounds, he moves like a defensive back but hits like a linebacker — a rare blend that defenses crave in today’s pass-happy NFL.

Furthermore, his experience — despite still being relatively young — brings added value.

He’s played under multiple defensive coordinators, adapted to varied schemes, and contributed in different roles.

Green Bay is banking on that adaptability, as well as the chip now firmly planted on Simmons’ shoulder.

Isaiah Simmons and the Power of Reinvention

Professional sports often mirror life’s unpredictability, and Isaiah Simmons’ journey is a testament to that.³

From top-10 draft pick to being traded, let go, and now given a second chance — his story reflects the ups and downs that athletes frequently navigate.

What makes Simmons’ journey compelling is his mindset. Instead of complaining about being overlooked or misused, he’s turning that pain into purpose. That maturity and drive could very well be the catalyst for his resurgence.

Simmons isn’t just looking to make a roster — he’s aiming to leave a mark. In Green Bay, he has the environment, opportunity, and motivation to do just that.

Reflecting on His Time in New York

Looking back, Simmons doesn’t harbor bitterness toward his time with the Giants. If anything, it seems to have helped sharpen his focus.

While his 2024 numbers dipped — with only 21 total tackles and one quarterback hit — it’s worth noting that he was often used in a situational capacity.

Part of the issue in New York was the overall dysfunction of the team. With a 3-14 record, the Giants struggled across the board.

The defense was frequently on the field, the offense failed to sustain drives, and the coaching staff faced heavy criticism for inconsistent play-calling. Amid that chaos, Simmons often became the scapegoat or was simply underutilized.

His gratitude toward the organization speaks volumes about his maturity. Rather than lamenting missed chances, he appears focused on making the most of the present.

Expectations for the 2025 Season

• As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Isaiah Simmons to see if this new chapter can unlock the player many believed he could become back in 2020.
• With the Packers aiming to return to playoff contention, they will need every ounce of fire and determination from players like Simmons.
• His role could evolve as the season progresses. If he shines in training camp and the preseason, he could earn a starting spot or become a key contributor in various defensive packages.
• The Packers will likely monitor his performance closely through the early weeks and could increase his responsibilities accordingly.
• Moreover, Simmons will also be playing for his future. At 26 years old, he’s entering a critical phase of his career.
• A strong showing with Green Bay could result in a multi-year extension or generate interest across the league in free agency. Either way, 2025 might be his most pivotal year yet.

Isaiah Simmons Ready for Fresh Start with Green Bay Packers

A New Chapter Begins in Green Bay

Isaiah Simmons, the versatile and athletic linebacker who once had the NFL world buzzing with potential, is now embarking on a fresh start with the Green Bay Packers.

After a turbulent first few years in the league that didn’t quite live up to expectations, Simmons is looking ahead with optimism and focus as he prepares to contribute to Jeff Hafley’s defense.

Drafted eighth overall by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft, Simmons was heralded as a game-changing hybrid defender—someone capable of lining up at linebacker, safety, and even cornerback.

Unfortunately, that same versatility led to his inconsistency, with teams struggling to find the right fit for his skill set. But now, Simmons believes he’s finally found the right place to thrive.

High Expectations and Early Struggles in Arizona

Simmons entered the NFL out of Clemson as one of the most hyped defensive prospects in years.

His college resume was impressive—he had the size of a linebacker, the speed of a safety, and the coverage skills of a cornerback. Many believed he could redefine what it meant to be a modern NFL defender.

However, the Cardinals’ inability to establish a clear role for Simmons hindered his development.

In three seasons in Arizona, he played 50 games and started 37, posting 258 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits, and 7.5 sacks. While these numbers are respectable, they didn’t reflect the dominance many expected.

His time in Arizona came to a premature end when new head coach Jonathan Gannon decided Simmons wasn’t the right cultural fit. The linebacker was traded to the New York Giants, where he played a rotational role in 2023.

A Short and Uneventful Stint with the Giants

In New York, Simmons hoped for a second chance. But the Giants, who traded for him during the preseason, used him sparingly.

He struggled to earn a consistent role in Wink Martindale’s defense and ended the year with limited impact. Once again, his position was undefined. Was he a safety? Was he a linebacker? Or a situational pass-rusher?

The lack of clarity made it difficult for Simmons to showcase what he does best. And for the second time in his short career, he found himself searching for the right environment where his potential could be unlocked.

Isaiah Simmons: Packers Present the Opportunity to Specialize

That search may finally be over. Simmons signed with the Green Bay Packers during the offseason and has already expressed excitement over the direction the team is taking with him.

Under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Simmons is being asked to focus on one specific role—something that’s been missing from his career until now.

“I think really what I ran into most of my career is everybody wants me to do everything as opposed to letting me get really good at one thing first,” Simmons said.

“I fully believe in Haf’s plan. He’s letting me just lock in and learn a small portion first before we even think about expanding to anything else.”

This philosophy resonates with Simmons. Rather than being thrown into multiple roles with little continuity, he is now being allowed to focus and master a specific responsibility. For a player of his talents, this could be the key to unlocking a much-needed breakout season.

Jeff Hafley’s Influence and Vision

Jeff Hafley, formerly the head coach at Boston College and a respected defensive mind, is known for his detailed approach and emphasis on player development.

He preaches discipline, fundamentals, and situational awareness—three areas where Simmons can benefit immensely.

Hafley’s decision to limit Simmons’ responsibilities at first may seem conservative, but it’s strategic. The goal is to build Simmons’ confidence and understanding of his role before expanding it. If successful, Simmons could emerge as a cornerstone in the Packers’ defense.

This approach also contrasts sharply with his previous stops, where he was often stretched thin trying to play multiple positions at once. Simmons thrives on athleticism, but even the most gifted players need structure.

Isaiah Simmons: Paid Partnership

Isaiah Simmons tied up in a paid partnership Ticket Master and promoting them on his instagram account.

 

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A Defense Filled with Young Potential

The Packers’ defense, anchored by players like Rashan Gary, Jaire Alexander, Quay Walker, and Kenny Clark, has a youthful core with high upside. Simmons’ addition adds another layer of potential to this unit.

If he can carve out a role as a reliable coverage linebacker or an effective box defender, it could give the Packers an edge in tight matchups.

Simmons also brings speed and sideline-to-sideline range—traits Hafley values in his defensive scheme. Whether in nickel packages, third-down blitzes, or even as a spy against mobile quarterbacks, Simmons has tools that could become vital in critical moments.

A Motivated Mindset and Newfound Maturity

One of the most noticeable aspects of Simmons’ attitude in Green Bay is his sense of clarity and purpose. After years of bouncing between positions, teams, and expectations, he now appears focused and eager to prove himself.

No longer burdened by being a top-10 pick who must deliver instantly, Simmons is embracing the idea of slow growth and steady improvement. He understands that his NFL journey hasn’t gone as planned, but he’s not allowing it to define him.

His public comments also suggest a player who is self-aware and willing to learn: “I’ve done a lot of different things, but it’s time for me to lock in and master something.”