The Cardinals took full advantage of Simmons’ versatile skill set, too. According to his snap count in 2021, including the postseason, Simmons was used:
- 596 snaps at inside linebacker
- 237 snaps as an edge rusher
- 165 snaps at slot corner
- 24 snaps as an outside cornerback
- 2 snaps at free safety
Simmons enjoys taking the field at different positions outside of inside linebacker; he finds it helpful since it gives him more knowledge conceptually about the defense. The thought of where he could be had he stuck to one spot is something he doesn’t ponder about; his mind is only worried about fulfilling his expectations.
“My expectation is to be the best in the game, ever,” Simmons said. “I don’t ever want to sell myself short. Why not dream big? Why not want to be the best player ever to touch the NFL? Until I reach that, I won’t stop working.”
Like last season, Simmons can help the defense in a variety of ways. He can help set the edge to get pressure on the quarterback, drop into the slot or even play some safety if needed.
Still, the major element in their success defensively will factor in Simmons and Zaven Collins playing well together as the starting inside linebackers. Like Simmons, Collins was selected in the first round in 2021 as the future. Collins was slated to start with Simmons last year, but was beaten out for the job by Hicks and was primarily used on special teams.
Simmons said Collins seems more comfortable this offseason, which is essential considering the responsibility they will carry together.
“Just being two young guys controlling the defense, I feel like our chemistry together is important,” Simmons said.
“I had to get after him a little last week, just telling him, ‘Come on now, we don’t get time to be B.S.-ing around.’ The mistakes we made before, we have to limit them and make new mistakes moving forward. It wasn’t something he wanted to hear, but he realized I was telling him for our betterment. Everyone is just trying to get that Super Bowl.”
Although Simmons has found a groove as a young leader on the field, the task of adjusting to adult life off the field hasn’t been as enjoyable.
“I’m trying to find days when I’m not spending any money,” Simmons said. “It’s always a bill or something you have to take care of as an adult. Being an adult is fun but it sucks, too.”