Colts’ John Simon Could Surprise Next Season
By Ryan Stano
Simon was the Colts’ best linebacker a season ago before he got hurt. Even though he is changing positions, underestimating him could be a big mistake.
John Simon was a great linebacker last year. After being signed in the offseason, he was able to win a starting position and play like he earned it. He was consistently the best linebacker on the roster, and at times was the best defensive player on the field for the Colts.
But now things are changing. Simon has to switch positions to defensive end. Simon hasn’t played end since his days at Ohio State. But that doesn’t mean he can’t do it. Simon was one of the leaders of the Buckeyes and was able to have a big impact on the game.
The NFL level is certainly different than college. Simon will have a tough transition to make. But it will be made easier by the fact that he has experience playing the position before. It also helps that the Colts play indoors so he can be faster on the field.
Simon’s biggest issue will be his competition. There are several other good players that are fighting for playing time at the defensive end position. Jabaal Sheard and Tarell Basham are the two guys who are the presumed starters, but they can be pushed.
Other players like Tyquan Lewis and Margus Hunt could see time at defensive end as well. Simon is competing with everyone for time at defensive end. But the coaches know that he will work his butt off to make sure that he is in the mix.
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Next year will be a make it or break it year for Simon. He becomes a free agent after the 2019 season. If he is able to play well next year, he can establish himself as someone to look at going into the final year in his contract.