GREEN BAY, Wis. – During his time at Clemson, Isiaah Simmons earned the Butkus Award as the best linebacker in the nation. Drafted eighth overall in 2020 by the Arizona Cardinals, Simmons showcased his college versatility by playing multiple positions. The Green Bay Packers, known for valuing adaptable players perhaps more than any other NFL team, have a different approach with Simmons. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley plans to have Simmons concentrate solely on the linebacker role.

“I’ve often faced situations where teams wanted me to do everything instead of mastering one role first,” Simmons shared at the end of the Packers minicamp on Thursday. “I have full confidence in Haf’s strategy. He’s allowing me to focus on a specific area before considering any expansion, which I truly value since I’ve never really had the chance to specialize in one position. My versatility has been both a blessing and a curse—they want me everywhere, but I’m still human.”

With Quay Walker sidelined due to injury during the offseason, the Packers’ base defense featured Isaiah McDuffie at middle linebacker, with Simmons and Edgerrin Cooper on the flanks. There was no deployment as an edge rusher, safety, or slot receiver matchup. Simmons’ flexibility and remarkable size and athleticism resulted in impressive stats: in 2021, he recorded 105 tackles, four forced fumbles, and seven pass defenses; in 2022, he had 99 tackles, four sacks, two forced fumbles, and seven pass defenses.

However, this adaptability also meant he didn’t excel at any single position. Despite his standout stats, the Cardinals declined his fifth-year option and traded him to the Giants for a mere seventh-round draft pick. Simmons was largely overlooked with the Giants, starting only five games and playing 558 snaps over two seasons. In Week 16 against Atlanta, he didn’t play on defense and only participated in four special teams plays.

“I’m genuinely thankful to New York for what they did,” Simmons mentioned. “They reignited my passion, and I’m ready to prove myself.” In free agency, Simmons sought a team that envisioned him making a significant impact, and the Packers seemed most enthusiastic about him. Hafley’s plan is straightforward: focus on playing linebacker.

On a defense that ranked in the top six for points allowed last season, Simmons feels he’s seen as a crucial missing piece. “From the start, they were honest here,” Simmons said. “They told me, ‘Most of our players are returning, but we need a few pieces, and you’re one of them.’ Knowing I’d have a specific role was encouraging since my past movement was often due to injuries or insufficient performance from others.”

The development of Simmons’ role will be a compelling storyline during training camp. With the starting linebackers—Cooper, Walker, and McDuffie—returning, there isn’t an obvious path to playing time. Most of Simmons’ snaps in 2022 were in the slot, and the Packers have Nate Hobbs and Javon Bullard for the nickel role. Simmons might replace McDuffie, who is favored by Hafley and position coach Sean Duggan from their time at Boston College, or he might serve in a niche role during third-and-long scenarios.

Simmons is clear about his intentions: he’s ready to earn his place, whatever that may be. “We can be best friends, but at the end of the day, it’s a competition,” he stated. “It’ll only make us better, whoever ends up on the field. I’m here to make the coaches’ decision difficult, which will ultimately benefit the team. Whatever Haf decides, I’m just here to work hard every day.”

Before signing, Simmons consulted former Giants teammate, All-Pro safety Xavier McKinney, who endorsed the Packers. He appreciates the endorsement and the opportunity Hafley offers to rejuvenate his career. “I believe everything happens for a reason. Many past events remain unexplained, but I’m focused on this year and eager to show what I’m truly capable of.”