In what is shaping up to be one of the underappreciated signings of the offseason, the Green Bay Packers have signed Isaiah Simmons to a one-year deal. The former first-round draft choice is off to Lambeau Field in search of rebooting his career after a relatively quiet run with the New York Giants.
Isaiah Simmons: Cardinals ➝ Giants ➝ Packers.
Originally taken 8th overall in 2020 by the Arizona Cardinals, Simmons was once touted as a generational defensive asset—a hybrid linebacker-safety who could cover tight ends, rush the passer, and stop the run.
But the hype didn’t entirely translate to dominance. After three up-and-down seasons in Arizona, Simmons was dealt to the New York Giants in 2023 for mere seventh-round compensation—a huge depreciation in perceived value. In his 2024 season with the Giants, he appeared in all 17 games but started only once, taking a modest 17% of defensive snaps.
Why the Packers Are Betting on Simmons
Though he receives limited play in New York, Simmons possesses one characteristic team desire: durability. He has not missed a game through his first five NFL seasons. For the Packers, that is important—particularly in a year where defensive depth is valuable.
Green Bay is famous for taking smart risks on utility players, and Simmons qualifies. At only 25 years of age, he has a lot of fuel remaining in the tank. With 329 tackles for his career, 8.5 sacks, 15 TFLs, 9 forced fumbles, and 5 interceptions, his numbers point to the potential that he can thrive within the proper system.
A Not-So-Subtle Hint
Even before the news came officially, Simmons got the Cheeseheads going crazy on social media with a lighthearted post—a mousetrap filled with cheese—clearly indicating a willingness to be in the Green & Gold. Quickly, the Packers acted on getting it done, and now Titletown has its new homecoming in Simmons.
SportSnip Analysis: Would Simmons be 2025 Steal?
The following is what makes things happen.
The Packers’ defense is making a strategic shift. New defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is pushing speed, versatility, and deception—just the type of system that might bring out Simmons’ best.
If Green Bay can find a defined role—whether as a dime linebacker, situational pass rusher, or coverage safety—Simmons has the potential to become a game-changing asset. Worst case? He brings solid value to special teams with the potential to evolve into a dynamic playmaker. Best case? He becomes a Swiss army knife that offenses dread.
At likely minimal cost, this is the definition of a high-reward signing.
Career Stats Snapshot (2020–2024)
Final Thoughts
The Packers have taken a big step by signing Isaiah Simmons, and while it might be under the radar, it ultimately might be one of the offseason’s most intelligent gambles.
For Simmons, this isn’t just a fresh start—it’s a defining season to prove his true worth. And for the Packers, it’s a cheap wager on a high-ceiling player who might be only one good system away from being a star.
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