Trenton Simpson’s Versatility Meets Multiple Needs On Giants' Defense
The New York Giants are in the market for off-ball linebackers and edge rushers. With the 25th pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, they could get both in Clemson linebacker Trenton Simpson.
“I feel like every team likes that I'm very versatile because it brings a lot of value,” Simpson said ahead of the NFL Combine on Thursday. “I can play at all three levels of the ball; defensive end, all three linebacker [spots], and some safety and free safety.”
Simpson’s versatility shined at Clemson, where he racked up 165 tackles, 13 sacks, five pass deflections, and three forced fumbles. His size (6-foot-2, 235 pounds), motor, and coverage abilities liken him to Baltimore Ravens linebacker and 2023 Butkus Award winner Roquan Smith. However, Simpson is two inches taller and runs the 40-yard dash roughly one-tenth of a second faster.
Simpson says he models his game after Dallas Cowboys edge rusher Micah Parsons, which is also a fair comparison considering both players’ ability to collapse the pocket with lightning-fast pass rushing.
He also calls out similarities to fellow Clemson alum and current Arizona Cardinal Isaiah Simmons, mostly regarding their development and preparation.
“I feel like we're very alike. We were coached by the same coach, Brent Venables. So just watching his tape, he was the reason I decided to come to Clemson,” Simpson said. “Watching how he's transitioning to the NFL, it's truly amazing because I was able to watch him at Clemson as a recruit. Just a great relationship. I look at him as a big brother, for sure.”
New York landed among the five worst rush defenses in the NFL last year, so shoring up the front seven will be key to bolstering the 2023 roster. The question remains whether Simpson is worth spending the Giants’ first-round pick if a comparable player like Iowa’s Jack Campbell will be available in the second.
However, after a solid performance at the Combine, Campbell’s stock likely went up, leaving both players high on the draft boards of several teams.
For Simpson, it all comes back to versatility. Having met with various NFL teams, including the Giants, the topic of his adaptability and all-in-one skillset was a focal point of the conversations.
“Being able to be on the field all three downs is very important for today's linebacker. And with my speed and athletic ability, that's perfect for today's NFL,” Simpson said.
In athletic testing, Simpson ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds, a time he had predicted earlier in the day. He elected to sit out the remaining tests, leaving room for players like Campbell to stand out, but his raw athleticism has never been a concern.
During on-field drills, Simpson moved swiftly and looked comfortable. He was well-prepared and looked forward to showcasing his elite movement. In his pre-Combine press conference, Simpson noted his appreciation for the opportunity.
“I'll go out there, have a good time, show my skills off, have fun, and just enjoy the moment, live in the moment,” Simpson said.
With Giants General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll in attendance on Thursday, they likely kept a close eye on Simpson’s performance. Ready to make an impact on Day 1, the Charlotte, North Carolina native is a realistic selection with the 25th pick.
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