In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the NFL Draft, the Arizona Cardinals have secured a potential diamond in the rough by selecting injured Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons. Despite his recent injury setbacks, the Cardinals believe Simmons, once considered a top-tier prospect, holds immense upside and could reshape their offensive line for years to come. This selection represents a calculated gamble by the Cardinals, whose rebuilding efforts have put them on a path to revitalizing their roster, and Simmons’ selection marks a significant step in that direction.
A Rising Star with a Setback
Josh Simmons, a 6-foot-5, 315-pound offensive tackle, first burst onto the scene during his time at Ohio State, showcasing an impressive combination of size, strength, and agility that caught the attention of scouts. He played a pivotal role in one of the most dynamic offenses in college football, anchoring the Buckeyes’ offensive line while protecting elite quarterbacks and opening lanes for high-caliber running backs. His athleticism and footwork were widely regarded as elite, and many saw him as a potential first-round pick prior to the 2025 draft.
However, Simmons’ journey to the NFL has been marred by an unfortunate injury history. A torn ACL in his final season at Ohio State slowed his progression, leading to questions about his long-term health and recovery. Despite undergoing surgery and working relentlessly to get back on track, the injury left some teams hesitant to commit to him in the early rounds.
The Arizona Cardinals, however, saw beyond the injury concerns. They viewed Simmons as a project with massive potential, one who could develop into a franchise cornerstone on their offensive line if given time to heal and adjust to the NFL game. Arizona’s decision to pick Simmons was rooted in a belief that his talent outweighed the risk associated with his injury history.
A Calculated Gamble
For the Cardinals, the risk involved with selecting Simmons is not insignificant. In today’s NFL, a player’s medical history can often be a determining factor in their draft stock. With Simmons recovering from a significant knee injury, it could be years before he is fully back to his prime. However, Arizona’s front office has expressed confidence in their medical staff and the rehabilitation process, with hopes that Simmons will return to his pre-injury form.
The Cardinals have been in the midst of a rebuild since parting ways with their former franchise quarterback, Kyler Murray. With a new coaching staff in place and a vision to rejuvenate the roster, they have been looking for young, high-upside players who can be the foundation of their next competitive team. Selecting a player with as much raw talent as Simmons, even with the injury risks, is a statement of intent by the franchise. The Arizona front office clearly believes that the reward far outweighs the risk.
In a draft loaded with talent at multiple positions, including wide receiver and defensive back, Arizona’s willingness to take a chance on an injured player like Simmons shows a shift in their philosophy. While other teams were hesitant to take a gamble on a player who may not contribute immediately, the Cardinals are betting that, in the long term, Simmons will be the type of player who can anchor their offensive line for years.
The Future of Arizona’s Offensive Line
Arizona’s offensive line has been a point of emphasis for the team in recent years, as they have struggled to find consistent protection for their quarterbacks. The addition of Simmons, once he’s fully recovered, has the potential to change the landscape of their line entirely. Simmons is known for his ability to dominate at the point of attack and his powerful run-blocking skills, which would immediately improve the team’s ability to establish a strong ground game. His pass protection also remains a work in progress, but his athleticism and natural strength give him a high ceiling in that area as well.
While Simmons may need time to adapt to the NFL, especially following his injury, Arizona is betting that his natural skills will allow him to succeed in their system. Once he’s fully healthy, Simmons could play at either tackle spot or even transition to guard, offering the team flexibility. If he does live up to his potential, the Cardinals could have a future star on their hands, a cornerstone piece who helps protect the quarterback and pave the way for a dynamic running game.
The Arizona Cardinals’ Long-Term Strategy
With this selection, Arizona has made it clear that they are committed to building for the long-term future. In a league that has seen the rise of explosive offenses and strong pass rushes, a dominant offensive line is essential for sustained success. By selecting Simmons, the Cardinals are laying the groundwork for a unit that could keep their quarterbacks upright and create opportunities for their skill position players to thrive.
The franchise has been criticized in recent years for its inability to build a complete team, but the Simmons pick represents a shift in their approach to the draft. Arizona has focused on building its roster with high-upside players, taking chances on those with potential who may need a little extra time to develop. Simmons is a prime example of that mindset.
While other teams may have shied away from the risk associated with selecting an injured player, the Cardinals are banking on the idea that their investment in Simmons will pay dividends down the road. By taking this leap of faith, they are signaling to their fans and the league that they are committed to building a winning team that can contend for championships in the near future.
A New Chapter for Josh Simmons
As for Simmons, his NFL journey has just begun, and he now faces the challenge of proving that the Arizona Cardinals made the right decision in selecting him. The road to recovery may not be easy, but if Simmons can regain his pre-injury form, he has the potential to be one of the best offensive tackles in the league. His resilience, combined with the support of a franchise willing to take a risk on him, could ultimately lead to a bright future.
In a draft filled with bold moves, the Arizona Cardinals’ decision to select Josh Simmons may very well be one of the most significant. It’s a move that signals confidence, optimism, and the belief that sometimes, taking a risk can lead to tremendous rewards. Time will tell if Simmons can live up to his potential, but one thing is for sure: the Arizona Cardinals are betting on him to be a cornerstone of their future.
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