The Tennessee Titans used a first-round pick (19th overall) in the 2019 NFL Draft on defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. He played sparingly last season, appearing in nine games and starting seven. In that time, Simmons racked up 32 tackles (four for loss) and two sacks, adding one pass deflection.
Now Simmons is set for a much bigger role in 2020, though, and it appears he's ready to take on that challenge. According to Jim Wyatt of the Titans' official website, Simmons is ready for a big sophomore season in Tennessee.
“I told Jurrell I appreciate everything he did for me coming in as a rookie,” Simmons said. “Jurrell took me under his wing and pretty much broke everything down for me – that was very helpful coming in as a rookie, especially coming in hurt.
“Me personally, I don't feel any pressure (to fill a void). I just have to be myself and continue to do what I do. This offseason right now, I am just working to get physically and mentally ready for next year.
“I haven't worn [the knee brace] one time (this offseason),” he said. “I honestly don't know where it's at. … I am just continuing to work hard to get my knee in the best possible shape as I can for the upcoming season. My knee if feeling good. I am feeling great right now. … I am working my tail off this offseason.”
Simmons says a few things here that should get fans of the Titans pretty fired up.
First of all, he talks about how Jurrell Casey helped him. Having a mentor is always a positive, especially when it's someone as talented as Casey.
Then there's the fact that he does not feel pressure. This indicates two different things. First of all, Simmons is not going to overthink anything too much. He understands he has a role to do and he plans on doing it. Second, he is ready to be a big part of the defense and believe he has the talent to do so.
Finally, there is all the knee talk. Simmons says his knee is feeling good and he has ditched the knee brace. In fact, not only has he ditched it, but he hasn't worn it in so long that he is not entirely sure where it is.
The knee is feeling good and Simmons is confident. That's all the Titans and their fans could really ask for. It sounds like the defensive tackle is indeed poised for a massive sophomore season in Tennessee.
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