BREAKING: Giants May Have Accidentally Sparked Packers’ Boldest Free Agent Move Yet!

As he enters his sixth NFL season, Isaiah Simmons is still working to shake the “bust” label. Drafted eighth overall in 2020 after a standout career at Clemson, Simmons struggled to find his footing with the Arizona Cardinals. His versatility—once seen as a strength—may have worked against him early on.

In 2023, the New York Giants attempted to buy low on the former first-rounder, acquiring him from Arizona for just a seventh-round pick. Despite flashes of potential, the Giants opted not to retain Simmons beyond a short stint, allowing him to hit free agency after the 2024 season.

Now, Simmons is taking on a fresh start with the Green Bay Packers on a one-year “prove-it” deal—and he’s confident this situation fits him better.

“Most of my career, people wanted me to do everything instead of letting me master one thing first,” Simmons told reporters, via Pro Football Talk.

“I fully believe in Haf’s plan. He’s letting me focus and grow in one area before expanding my role. That’s something I never really had the chance to do before.”

Simmons’ role has been in flux since his rookie year. Though he was a near every-down player by his second season in Arizona (92% of defensive snaps), that number declined in subsequent years. After arriving in New York, Simmons was shifted from linebacker to safety and saw his playing time drop to just 33% of defensive snaps in 2023. He still managed 50 tackles, an interception returned for a touchdown, and three pass breakups.

But in 2024, Simmons’ involvement shrank even more—just 21 tackles and no interceptions across 17 games. While the Giants gave him a short extension after his first season, they clearly didn’t see him as part of their long-term core.

Still, Simmons expressed appreciation for his time in New York.

“They lit a fire under me,” he said. “And I’m ready to go.”

Now 27, Simmons sees Green Bay as a shot at redemption and resurgence. As a former top-10 pick with elite athletic tools, he enters 2025 determined to finally live up to the hype—and prove his best football is still ahead.