Simmons Shines in Packers’ Preseason Finale Against Seahawks
Green Bay fans brought a keen eye to every Packers preseason snap, especially at linebacker, where veteran Isaiah Simmons had the most to prove. Signed in April on a one-year deal, the former top-10 pick arrived with excitement about his hybrid safety versatility and athleticism. But after two exhibition games in which coverage struggles were exposed, Simmons needed a strong finish to secure his spot on a crowded roster.
In the finale against Seattle, Simmons delivered. He logged the second-most defensive snaps for Green Bay (41) and finished with seven tackles, the team’s most, while also contributing on special teams with seven return-focused snaps. His improved play extended to the run game, where he showed better instincts and physicality in tackling and alignment.
Throughout the early preseason, opposing quarterbacks tested Simmons in coverage, with Green Bay’s scheme demanding reliable linebackers in space. That pressure manifested in high completion numbers against the Packers’ linebacker corps, underscoring the need for Simmons to demonstrate more consistency in pass defense. The late-game turnaround provided a clear signal that he can be a more complete contributor if he can sustain the improved form.
From a roster standpoint, Simmons remains a flexible piece on a cheap, one-year contract. He isn’t expected to be a starter, but his versatility—paired with standout special-teams value—could help him edge onto the final 53-man roster. If he can maintain the uptick in run support play and keep contributing on special teams, Green Bay will have a credible depth option at linebacker who can be deployed in multiple looks.
What this means moving forward is that Simmons has repositioned himself from a high-potential prospect who hadn’t yet translated that upside to a credible, usable contributor in the Packers’ defensive mix. The final preseason performance gave coaches something tangible to weigh as they finalize the roster, and it offered a hopeful sign that his skill set can fit Hafley’s scheme with more confidence.
Summary: Simmons delivered a strong, visibility-boosting finale that underscored his potential value as a versatile defender and core special-teams contributor, helping him push toward a place on Green Bay’s 53-man roster.
Additional notes:
– If Simmons can maintain this level of play, the Packers’ depth at linebacker improves, giving head coach Matt LaFleur more formation flexibility.
– His performance could influence how Green Bay balances youth and experience across the defense as they prepare for the regular season.