Green Bay Packers Take a Chance on Former Cardinals First-Rounder Isaiah Simmons
The Green Bay Packers are making headlines with a strategic roster addition, signing former first-round pick Isaiah Simmons, previously of the Arizona Cardinals and most recently with the New York Giants. NFL insider Jordan Schultz broke the news, stating Simmons has agreed to terms with Green Bay, offering the team a rare blend of versatility, athleticism, and untapped potential.
At just 26 years old, Simmons brings a unique skill set to the Packers. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 238 pounds, the former Clemson standout was once heralded as one of the most dynamic defensive prospects in recent memory. With the ability to play multiple roles — including linebacker, nickel corner, and even safety — Simmons was often referred to as a “unicorn” during his draft process.
Drafted eighth overall by the Cardinals in the 2020 NFL Draft, Simmons was expected to be a cornerstone of Arizona’s defense. However, despite his physical gifts and flashes of brilliance (including two career pick-sixes), he struggled to find a consistent role in the Cardinals’ defensive scheme. After the team declined his fifth-year option, Simmons was traded to the Giants in 2023 for a seventh-round pick — a stark fall from his original draft-day hype.
In New York, Simmons saw limited action, starting just four games in 2023 and one in 2024. While he wasn’t a regular starter, he continued to showcase moments of playmaking ability, keeping hopes alive that he could still develop into the impact player many projected him to be.
Now, Simmons has a fresh opportunity in Green Bay. While his exact role with the Packers remains undefined, his arrival adds intriguing depth and flexibility to a defense that’s already solid across the board. His versatility could allow defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley to deploy him in various packages, especially in hybrid or sub-package formations.
Though financial terms of the deal haven’t been disclosed, this move clearly represents a low-risk, high-upside play for the Packers. Simmons still has youth, athleticism, and experience on his side. If he can finally settle into a defined role and harness his raw talent, Green Bay might have just secured a hidden gem.
For Simmons, the journey from top-10 pick to potential reclamation project isn’t over yet — but the next chapter begins in Titletown.