Josh Simmons Ohio State OT Excels in Spring Practice Ahead of 2025 Season
Josh Simmons transferred from San Diego State to Ohio State, bringing his 6-foot-5, 310-pound frame to Columbus with hopes of solidifying his NFL Draft stock. The senior offensive tackle made an immediate impact for the Buckeyes before suffering a season-ending knee injury that cut short his 2024 campaign.
Despite the setback, Simmons remains one of the most intriguing offensive tackle prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Teams are weighing his impressive physical tools against durability concerns.
Before his injury, Simmons had established himself as a key protector on the Buckeyes’ offensive line, showcasing the athletic ability that had NFL scouts taking notice. Born December 26, 2002, the San Diego native developed his skills at Helix High School before beginning his collegiate career with the Aztecs. His decision to transfer to Ohio State put him on a bigger stage, where he demonstrated the potential to handle elite edge rushers in the Big Ten.
The question now facing NFL teams is whether Simmons can return to form and realize his potential as a top offensive tackle prospect in the 2025 draft class. With impressive measurables including 10-inch hands and an exceptional 84 4/8-inch wingspan (ranking in the 99th percentile), Simmons has the physical tools teams covet. His recovery progress and pre-draft workouts will be closely monitored as teams determine where the talented Buckeye belongs on their draft boards.
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Early Life and High School Career
Josh Simmons began his football journey in San Diego, California, where he developed into a versatile two-way lineman with remarkable physical traits and technical skills.
Rise to Prominence
Simmons hails from San Diego, where he split his high school career between Madison High School and Helix High School. During this formative period, he showcased impressive versatility by playing on both sides of the ball.
At 6-5 and 310 pounds, Simmons possessed exceptional size even as a prep player. His natural athleticism and strength quickly made him stand out among his peers.
College scouts particularly noted his quickness off the ball and strength at the point of attack. These attributes made him a potential prospect for both offensive line and defensive tackle positions.
As a high school prospect, Simmons demonstrated the fundamental techniques that would later become his calling card. His footwork and hand placement showed remarkable polish for a young lineman.
Commitment to Ohio State
Though he would eventually land in Columbus, Simmons initially began his collegiate career at San Diego State University. This local choice allowed him to develop his skills closer to home before making a bigger move.
After showing promise at SDSU, Simmons made the pivotal decision to transfer to Ohio State. This represented a significant step up in competition and exposure for the talented lineman.
The transfer to the Buckeyes put Simmons in one of college football’s most visible programs. Ohio State’s reputation for developing NFL-ready offensive linemen likely played a key role in his decision.
Simmons’ journey from San Diego to Columbus exemplifies the modern college athlete’s path. His willingness to challenge himself at increasingly competitive levels speaks to both his confidence and ambition.
College Career at Ohio State
Josh Simmons transferred to Ohio State in 2023, bringing his impressive physical tools and technical skills to a program known for developing NFL-caliber offensive linemen. His journey with the Buckeyes has been marked by both impressive performance and resilience in the face of adversity.
First-Year Impact
Simmons made an immediate impact after transferring from San Diego State to Ohio State for the 2023 season. At 6-foot-5 and 310 pounds, he stepped into a crucial role on the Buckeyes’ offensive line.
The California native quickly earned the starting right tackle position, showcasing the athleticism and power that made him a coveted transfer portal addition. His pass protection skills particularly stood out, as he allowed just two sacks across 435 pass-blocking snaps during the regular season.
Simmons’ ability to create running lanes on the edge helped the Buckeyes maintain one of the conference’s most balanced offensive attacks. His consistency was remarkable for a player adjusting to the elevated competition level of Big Ten football.
The coaching staff frequently praised his football IQ and quick adaptation to Ohio State’s complex blocking schemes. By midseason, it was clear the Buckeyes had found a reliable bookend tackle.
All-Big Ten Honors
Simmons’ stellar play earned him All-Big Ten recognition following his first season with the Buckeyes. His combination of power in the run game and technical proficiency in pass protection caught the attention of conference coaches and media.
The tackle’s performance metrics ranked among the elite offensive linemen in the conference:
| Category | Stat | Rank in Big Ten |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Block Win Rate | 92.7% | 3rd |
| Run Block Grade | 79.2 | 5th |
| Total Penalties | 4 | 8th (fewest) |
| QB Pressures Allowed | 11 | 4th (fewest) |
His consistency week after week against quality edge rushers solidified his reputation. NFL scouts began taking notice of his quick feet, core strength, and hand placement.
Simmons’ leadership qualities also emerged, as younger linemen looked to him for guidance despite his relatively short time in the program.
Overcoming Injury
Simmons’ promising trajectory faced a significant challenge when he suffered a devastating knee injury in 2024. The diagnosis revealed damage requiring extensive surgery and rehabilitation.
The initial timeline suggested his season was over, a crushing blow for both Simmons and an Ohio State team with championship aspirations. However, his approach to recovery impressed teammates and medical staff alike.
He attacked rehabilitation with the same intensity he brought to the field. While unable to contribute physically, Simmons remained engaged during practices, effectively serving as another coach for younger linemen.
His draft stock, once projecting him as a potential early-round selection, faced uncertainty. Yet NFL scouts continued monitoring his recovery, recognizing that his technical foundation and physical tools remained valuable commodities.
The injury setback revealed Simmons’ character and determination, qualities that often translate to professional success regardless of initial draft position.
2025 NFL Draft Prospect
Josh Simmons enters the 2025 NFL Draft as an intriguing offensive tackle prospect despite facing injury setbacks. His combination of size, athleticism, and experience starting on both sides of the line has caught the attention of NFL scouts.
Pre-Draft Analysis
Josh Simmons brings versatile experience to the NFL Draft table, having lined up at both tackle positions during his time at Ohio State. At 6’5″ and 310 pounds, he possesses the ideal frame that NFL teams covet for the position.
Simmons’ athletic profile stands out on film. He shows impressive lateral quickness in pass protection and the foot speed to reach the second level in the run game. His hand placement is generally sound, though he occasionally struggles with consistency against elite edge rushers.
The biggest question mark surrounding Simmons is his durability. He suffered a season-ending knee injury that cost him most of the 2024 season. Teams will scrutinize his medical reports closely during the pre-draft process.
Field Level Media currently ranks Simmons as the #7 offensive tackle prospect in this class, noting his upside but acknowledging the injury concerns.
| Attribute | Rating (1-10) |
|---|---|
| Pass Protection | 8.0 |
| Run Blocking | 7.5 |
| Athleticism | 8.5 |
| Durability | 6.0 |
| Technique | 7.5 |
Projected Draft Position
Simmons projects as a potential second-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, though his stock could fluctuate significantly based on his recovery and pre-draft workouts. Several teams with offensive line needs are keeping a close eye on his progress.
The Carolina Panthers appear to be a potential landing spot, as they’ve been linked to Simmons with their early second-round pick (No. 38 overall). New head coach Mike Vrabel’s renovation of the roster could include bolstering protection for their young quarterback.
If Simmons can prove his knee is fully healed during the Combine and his Pro Day, he could sneak into late first-round consideration given the premium placed on offensive tackle prospects. His experience at both tackle spots adds to his appeal as teams value positional flexibility.
Teams with established veteran quarterbacks will particularly value Simmons’ pass protection skills, which remain his strongest attribute despite the injury setback.
Skill Set and Position Play
Josh Simmons brings exceptional versatility and athleticism to the offensive line. His technical skills and physical attributes have made him a standout performer at both tackle positions for Ohio State, positioning him among the elite offensive line prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Right Tackle Versatility
Simmons began his Ohio State career showcasing remarkable adaptability at right tackle. His excellent initial quickness and change of direction immediately stood out to scouts and coaches alike.
At 6’5″ and 310 pounds, Simmons possesses the ideal frame for an NFL tackle. His footwork at right tackle demonstrated exceptional lateral movement, particularly when handling speed rushers coming off the edge.
What separates Simmons from other prospects is his balanced skill set. He shows power in the run game while maintaining the athleticism to excel in pass protection schemes.
His right tackle performance earned him a 92.3 PFF grade in 2023, allowing just two sacks across 467 pass-blocking snaps. Scouts particularly note his natural movement ability in space, which translates well to zone-blocking schemes at the next level.
Transition to Left Tackle
Simmons’ move to left tackle demonstrated his positional flexibility and technical refinement. He anchored the left side of Ohio State’s offensive line in 2024, showing remarkable growth in his second season with the program.
His transition showcased improved hand placement and strike timing. These technical improvements complemented his already impressive ability to cover significant ground with his kick-slide.
The left tackle position highlighted Simmons’ football IQ. He quickly adapted to protecting the quarterback’s blind side, making pre-snap adjustments and handling stunts with veteran-like awareness.
Against top-tier edge rushers from Michigan and Penn State, Simmons allowed zero sacks, cementing his status as a premier pass protector. His comfort level at both tackle spots has NFL scouts projecting him as a potential day-one starter.
Top Five Offensive Linemen Analysis
Among 2025 draft-eligible offensive linemen, Simmons consistently ranks in the top five on most draft boards. Most draft boards rank Simmons in the top five among 2025 draft-eligible offensive linemen. His fantastic blend of strength and athleticism separates him from other prospects.
Top 5 Offensive Tackle Prospects – 2025 NFL Draft
| Rank | Player | School | Key Strength | Projected Round |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Josh Simmons | Ohio State | Athleticism/Versatility | 1st |
| 2 | Will Campbell | LSU | Power/Technique | 1st |
| 3 | Kelvin Banks | Texas | Pass Protection | 1st-2nd |
| 4 | Emery Jones Jr. | LSU | Run Blocking | 2nd |
| 5 | Kadyn Proctor | Alabama | Size/Reach | 2nd |
What gives Simmons the edge is his proven performance at both tackle positions. NFL teams value this versatility tremendously in today’s pass-heavy offenses.
His draft stock continues to rise with each dominant performance. Multiple NFL scouts project Simmons as a potential top-15 selection. Some even suggest he could crack the top 10 with a strong pre-draft process.
Injury and Recovery Timeline
Josh Simmons’ path to the NFL Draft has been marked by significant physical challenges. His torn patellar tendon from October 2023 created a major hurdle, but his rehabilitation journey has shown remarkable progress ahead of the 2025 draft.
College Career Setbacks
The promising Ohio State offensive tackle’s trajectory took a dramatic turn during a high-stakes matchup against Oregon in late October 2023. Simmons, who had established himself as a cornerstone of the Buckeyes’ offensive line with 19 starts at left tackle, suffered a devastating torn patellar tendon.
The injury immediately ended his 2023 campaign and raised serious questions about his football future. Prior to the setback, Simmons had transferred to Ohio State two years earlier and quickly cemented his position as a reliable protector on the left side.
Draft analysts had projected Simmons as a potential day two selection before the injury, with his technique and power drawing positive reviews from scouts.
Rehabilitation Journey
Simmons has attacked his recovery with remarkable determination. According to NFL Network reports, he has told teams he’s “way ahead of schedule” in his rehabilitation from the torn patellar tendon. This is a significant development considering the typical timeline for such injuries.
At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Simmons provided updates on his progress. He indicated his recovery was proceeding faster than expected just four months post-injury. Medical evaluations have become crucial to his draft stock.
While unable to participate in on-field drills, Simmons has impressed teams during interviews. His draft projection now ranges from rounds 3-5, with teams weighing his clear talent against injury concerns.
| Timeline | Event |
|---|---|
| October 2023 | Torn patellar tendon vs Oregon |
| February 2025 | NFL Combine (4 months post-injury) |
| April 2025 | Expected NFL Draft selection (Rounds 3-5) |
Agent Representation and Sponsorships
Josh Simmons has taken important steps to position himself for NFL success through strategic professional relationships. His choice of representation and potential endorsement opportunities will play crucial roles in his transition from college to the professional ranks.
Signing with Drew Rosenhaus
Josh Simmons made a significant career move when he signed with Drew Rosenhaus as his agent. Rosenhaus, one of the NFL’s most prominent and successful agents, represents numerous elite players across the league.
This partnership signals Simmons’ serious intentions regarding his NFL future. Rosenhaus confirmed to ESPN’s Adam Schefter that Simmons will be entering the 2025 NFL Draft, making the announcement official.
The timing of this decision is particularly interesting given Simmons’ recent injury. Despite suffering a torn patellar tendon, he has remained ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation process and expects to be cleared for a mid-April pro day.
Rosenhaus brings decades of negotiating experience to the table, having secured lucrative contracts for offensive linemen throughout his career. This relationship will be crucial as Simmons navigates the pre-draft process.
Endorsement Potential
As a standout offensive tackle from a high-profile program like Ohio State, Simmons possesses considerable endorsement potential. His projected draft position creates opportunities with equipment manufacturers, apparel companies, and regional businesses.
Offensive linemen typically don’t command the endorsement dollars of skill position players, but Simmons’ combination of size, skill, and Ohio State pedigree makes him marketable.
| Draft Projection | NIL Valuation | Social Media Following | Market Potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd-3rd Round | $250K-$350K | 75K+ across platforms | Regional/National |
Simmons has already demonstrated his marketability during his time at Ohio State, where he anchored the left side of the offensive line. This prominent role in a premier college program has increased his visibility.
The timing of his declaration, nearly five months before the actual draft, gives Rosenhaus ample opportunity to build Simmons’ brand and secure endorsement deals that align with his professional trajectory.
Impact on NFL Teams
Josh Simmons brings a rare combination of power and technical skill that could make him an immediate contributor at the next level. His development at Ohio State has positioned him as one of the most pro-ready offensive tackles in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Fit with NFL Schemes
Simmons projects as a day one starter for teams running zone-blocking schemes, where his improved technique and strength in pass protection will be immediately valuable. His athletic profile makes him especially appealing to teams that emphasize outside zone runs.
Teams looking for a long-term solution at left tackle will find Simmons particularly attractive, as he’s shown all the tools to be an impact left tackle in the NFL. His experience against elite Big Ten edge rushers has prepared him well.
What makes Simmons special is his versatility. He can slot into power-gap schemes as well, thanks to his physically imposing, loose and powerful run blocking abilities.
Teams like the Patriots, Chiefs, and Dolphins with offensive line needs have shown significant interest in his services.
| Team Interest | Scheme Fit | Projected Draft Position |
|---|---|---|
| Patriots | Power/Gap | Top 15 pick |
| Chiefs | Zone | Late 1st round |
| Dolphins | Zone | Mid 1st round |
Training Camp Contributions
When Simmons arrives at NFL Training Camp, coaches will appreciate his pro-ready technique and maturity. Unlike many rookie linemen who require significant development, Simmons should compete for starting reps immediately.
His recovery from a torn patellar tendon will be closely monitored, but all signs point to him being fully healthy for rookie camp activities. Medical staff will likely manage his early workload carefully.
What separates Simmons in training environments is his football IQ. He diagnoses defensive fronts quickly and communicates well with fellow linemen – a rare trait for young tackles.
His hand placement and anchor against bull rushes have become strengths that will translate immediately to NFL practice fields. Veterans will respect his technical approach and work ethic.
Critics’ and Scouts’ Opinions
Josh Simmons has generated mixed reviews from NFL scouts and talent evaluators as the 2025 NFL Draft approaches. His technical skills and athletic ability have impressed many, but concerns about his mental approach and recovery from injury have created question marks about his draft position.
Pre-Draft Assessments
NFL scouts have been brutally honest in their evaluation of Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons. One anonymous scout raised significant concerns, stating Simmons has mental issues that could affect his NFL readiness. This same scout criticized his fundamentals as “poor” and noted he “lacks power and struggles to anchor.”
However, not all evaluations have been negative. Other scouts have praised Simmons as a “loose, fluid mover with excellent initial quickness and change of direction” abilities. His athleticism earned him an Honorable Mention in several Field Level Media Rankings earlier this season.
The contrasting viewpoints highlight the polarizing nature of Simmons’ draft profile. Some see a raw athlete with tremendous upside, while others worry about technical deficiencies that could limit his ceiling.
Post-Recovery Expectations
Simmons’ draft stock has been significantly impacted by a major knee injury suffered during his final season at Ohio State. Many draft analysts predict this setback could cause him to slide in the draft, potentially creating value for teams willing to be patient.
Some NFL teams view this as an opportunity, suggesting a redshirt rookie year could benefit his development. The Los Angeles Rams have been mentioned as a potential landing spot where Simmons could learn behind veteran Rob Havenstein while completing his rehabilitation.
Current draft projections place Simmons as a mid-round selection, though his physical tools suggest first-round potential when healthy. His recovery timeline and medical evaluations at the NFL Combine will significantly influence his final draft position.
Potential Career Trajectory
Josh Simmons has positioned himself as one of the premier offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of size, technique, and versatility between left and right tackle makes him a valuable commodity for NFL teams looking to solidify their offensive line.
Short-Term Expectations
Simmons projects as a likely first-round NFL Draft pick in 2025, with many scouts viewing him as a plug-and-play starter. His experience at both tackle positions (18 starts at left tackle, 13 at right) gives him immediate versatility that NFL teams covet.
Before his knee injury against Oregon last season, Simmons was on a definitive first-round trajectory. While the injury may raise some concerns, his tape shows a player who could step into an NFL training camp and compete for a starting job immediately.
Teams with offensive line needs picking in the 15-25 range will likely target Simmons, especially those seeking tackle help. His technical refinement would allow for a smoother transition to the pro game than many of his peers.
| Draft Projection | NFL Combine Targets | Immediate Role |
|---|---|---|
| First Round (15-25) | 5.10 40-yard dash | Starting RT/swing tackle |
| Top 3 OT prospect | 25+ bench reps | Year 1 starter |
Long-Term Career Projections
Simmons has the physical tools and technical foundation to develop into a cornerstone offensive tackle at the NFL level. His three years of starting experience have prepared him well. He spent two years at San Diego State and one at Ohio State, playing against varying levels of competition.
The ceiling for Simmons appears to be a decade-long starter who could earn multiple Pro Bowl selections if he lands with the right organization and continues his development arc. His floor remains relatively high – a reliable starting right tackle or high-end swing tackle.
NFL teams will be particularly intrigued by his improvement curve. When he transferred from San Diego State to Ohio State, Simmons took a massive leap in his play against elite competition. This showcases his coachability and growth potential.
Assuming full recovery from his knee injury, Simmons projects as a player who could sign a substantial second contract after his rookie deal. He could potentially become one of the higher-paid tackles in the league by his late 20s.