Should the Saints consider Colin Simmons in April?
There’s no debate: Texas’ Colin Simmons is the best edge rusher in college football. He ended the conversation with a dominant week three performance and is trending towards being a top-10 pick next April. His unparalleled athleticism, pass rush prowess, and run defense make him a high-upside prospect that the New Orleans Saints must consider in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Simmons was unstoppable against Tennessee in week three. He racked up five sacks and 10 pressures against a ranked opponent and was responsible for Texas escaping with a win. Following that performance, his seven sacks are tied for the most nationally.
Few offensive linemen can match Simmons’ athleticism. The six-foot-three, 245-pound junior has an uncanny combination of blazing speed, burst, and imposing power that helps him bully his matchup. This makes him a three-down threat who impacts a team in a variety of ways.
Simmons can win solely because of this athleticism as a pass rusher, but he doesn’t need to. He’s a triple threat, with the ability to win with speed, power, or technique. His favorite move is speed-to-power, using his reported 34” arms to reach the opposing lineman’s chest and then bull-rush them backwards into the quarterback. He’s still developing more pass rush moves, but Simmons has shown the willingness and talent to use them.
Beyond this, the former five-star recruit is a monster against the run. He uses his aforementioned quickness to split blocks and penetrate the backfield. He understands how to set the edge and battles against bigger linemen. Then, he has violent intentions when meeting the ball carrier and can make highlight-level tackles.
An underrated aspect of Simmons’ game is his relentless motor. He’s always near the ball, even if it’s run to the other side. He never ceases and plays through the whistle. As a result, he’s excellent in pursuit and can make game-saving plays with his hustle.
These traits should intrigue the Saints, especially with their pending need at edge rusher. Chase Young is a star, but they lack a dynamic complement to him. That was Cameron Jordan, but the veteran is 37 years old and could be entering his final season. Additionally, Carl Granderson has flashed potential, but isn’t consistent enough to claim the role. Barring a breakout season or significant acquisition, the unit must be addressed in April.
If they do, Colin Simmons should be atop their wish list. His superhuman athleticism, pass rush, and stifling run defense makes him a top prospect that’s capable of transforming a defense.
