The Green Bay Packers are reportedly signing veteran linebacker Isaiah Simmons to a one-year contract. The move comes shortly after the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Simmons was originally the eighth overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He spent three seasons with Arizona before being traded to the New York Giants in 2023 for a seventh-round pick.
During his two seasons with the Giants, Isaiah Simmons appeared in 34 games. While he started 37 games in Arizona, his defensive starts decreased significantly with New York, where he primarily played on special teams.
Special teams has become a focus for Simmons in recent years. He played 370 snaps on special teams over the last two seasons for the Giants. Pro Football Focus gave him an 88.2 special teams rating in 2024.
The Packers had a visit with Simmons prior to the 2025 NFL Draft. The team currently has six off-ball linebackers on its 91-man roster. General manager Brian Gutekunst indicated the team faced depth challenges at the position in 2024.
Simmons, listed at 6-foot-4 and 238 pounds, offers versatility. According to Pro Football Focus, he has lined up in the box nearly 2,000 times in his career, in the slot over 800 times, and occasionally as a defensive back.
His defensive performance has been inconsistent throughout his career, but his size and athleticism remain assets. He has compiled five interceptions, nine forced fumbles, and 8.5 sacks over his five NFL seasons.
Isaiah Simmons will likely compete for a roster spot in Green Bay. Other players vying for positioning at linebacker include undrafted free agent Jamon Dumas-Johnson and Kristian Welch, who performed well in the 2024 preseason.
The addition of Simmons provides another experienced player to a linebacker group that includes Quay Walker, Edgerrin Cooper, Isaiah McDuffie, Ty'Ron Hopper, and Kristian Welch. The team is also expected to add Jamon Dumas-Johnson as an undrafted free agent.
