Cardinals’ Isaiah Simmons named to 2020 PFWA All-Rookie Team
It wasn’t the rookie season that most fans expected for Arizona Cardinals linebacker Isaiah Simmons, but it still ranked among the league’s best rookies. The 2020 No. 8 overall pick was named to the 2020 PFWA All-Rookie Team, as voted on by accredited media members covering the 32 NFL teams across the country.
Simmons was one of three linebackers named, along with Kenneth Murray of the L.A. Chargers and Patrick Queen of the Baltimore Ravens.
Simmons played less than most believed he would entering the year. He played in only 34% of the Cardinals’ defensive snaps but still was productive. He finished the season with 54 tackles (four for loss), two sacks, three quarterback hits, an interception, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
He is lined up to start next season.
Murray played 93% of the Chargers’ defensive snaps and had 107 tackles (five for loss) and a sack. Queen played in 80% of the Ravens’ defensive snaps and finished with 106 tackles (nine for loss), three sacks, 10 quarterback hits, an interception, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a touchdown.
Some see Simmons’ rookie campaign as a disappointment. His production looks good considering his usage compared to the other guys and should inspire optimism for the type of season he could have in 2021.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Latest show:
Previous shows:
and
