Chris Simms

CHRIS SIMMS’ 2023 NFL DRAFT WIDE RECEIVER RANKINGS TOPPED BY BOSTON COLLEGE’S ZAY FLOWERS; AVAILABLE NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” PODCAST

March 27, 2023 By admin Leave a Comment

“He is an unbelievable route runner …To me, he’s a top-20 pick.” – Simms on ranking Flowers No. 1

“He reminds me of Jarvis Landry, to a greater version. This guy is about as high level of a route runner as you’re going to see in college.” – Simms on Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba

“If you watch the film, you go, ‘There’s no doubt this is one of the best three or four receivers in this draft.’ There’s nothing he doesn’t do that’s top-notch.” – Simms on Stanford WR Michael Wilson

STAMFORD, Conn. – March 27, 2023 – NBC Sports’ Chris Simms discusses this year’s top wide receiver prospects heading into the 2023 NFL Draft and unveiled his WR draft rankings on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast, listing Boston College’s Zay Flowers, No. 1. In the episode, Simms ranks and breaks down Flowers, Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba, TCU’s Quentin Johnston, Stanford’s Michael Wilson, and Tennessee’s Jalin Hyatt.

Simms, a third-round pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2003 NFL Draft who played eight NFL seasons, is joined by NBC Sports’ Ahmed Fareed on the podcast. The two offer in-depth breakdowns, rankings, and NFL comparisons for this year’s top wide receiver prospects.

Simms has had recent success in projecting college wide receivers – including naming Ja’Marr Chase and DeVonta Smith as his No. 1 and 2 WRs in 2021, respectively, and listing CeeDee Lamb and Justin Jefferson as his top two WRs in 2020.

In the lead up to April’s NFL Draft, Simms will rank and break down every position group, provide a list of sleeper prospects, and issue a final mock draft.

Simms’ Top Five WR prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft:

Tier 1
1.		Zay Flowers, Boston College
2.		Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State
Tier 2
3.		Quentin Johnston, TCU
4.		Michael Wilson, Stanford
Tier 3
5.	Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee

The following are highlights from Simms’ WR draft rankings:

No. 1: Zay Flowers, Boston College

“The position versatility – he can play inside or outside. Some of the best releases in the draft are from Zay Flowers. He is pedal to the metal every play, every cut, everything he does. The build, the style of running…I think he looks like Antonio Brown. He is an unbelievable route runner, along with the explosive athlete. You’re really getting a three-in-one here with speed burner on the outside, speed burner on the inside, and slot receiver inside. I wrote Jaylen Waddle, that’s a guy he reminds me of…(He) plays bigger than his measurables say. To me, he’s a top-20 pick.”

No. 2: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State

“The speed is not blazing…but what’s off the charts good is the guy’s quickness and route running. His ability to come off the ball and be going 70% and almost jump in the air at the six-yard mark…it’s like Allen Iverson with an unbelievable crossover dribble. He’s got this unbelievable ability to change direction and then accelerate in a hurry. His ability after the catch…the first guy never tackles him…He reminds me of Jarvis Landry, to a greater version. This guy is about as high level of a route runner as you’re going to see in college.”

No. 3: Quentin Johnston, TCU

“Tee Higgins-ish with more explosive ability than Higgins had coming out. He can catch the six-yard shallow cross and run 80 yards for a touchdown. His ability to jump – it’s a 40.5 inch vertical – plus he’s 6’3” and his arms look like they’re ridiculously long. He’s Drake London-ish from last year, except he doesn’t have the route running but has more of the straight speed…He’s one of the most physically impressive wide receivers in recent memory. You don’t see a lot of the route variety…but he shows the ability to change direction with the ball in his hands. He has better feet, quickness, and suddenness than most people with his size.”

No. 4: Michael Wilson, Stanford

“This is where we’re going to go a little unconventional…But if you watch the film, you go, ‘There’s no doubt this is one of the best three or four receivers in this draft.’ There’s nothing he doesn’t do that’s top-notch…He ran a 4.58 at the Combine in the 40, (but) he plays way faster than that…The physical specimen is real, let alone the refined things you like to see in a receiver are real too. He can be another guy who could be inside or outside because he’s got the pure size and strength and speed to beat you outside but has the route running and it looks like the smarts to be that slot guy that catches your eye as well.”

No. 5: Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee

“If you like speed, then you like Jaylin Hyatt…This is a track start, straight-liner, DeSean Jackson-, Will Fuller-ish type of receiver. So, there’s going to be things about him that you love, there’s going to be some things about him that I’m not crazy about. He’s not a great route runner…I truly question whether he can do it, unlike the other guys where I try to piece things together. You can watch a bunch of catches and he never makes anybody miss, that’s not his game…If there’s a seam straight away, watch out…If he gets a free release or gets off the line of scrimmage the right way and you have a safety that doesn’t get back instantly, see ya. It’s going to be a 60-yard post for a touchdown. That’s where he’s special.”

-NBC SPORTS-

OHIO STATE QB C.J. STROUD IS NO. 1 PROSPECT ON CHRIS SIMMS’ 2023 NFL DRAFT QUARTERBACK RANKINGS, AVAILABLE NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” PODCAST

March 20, 2023 By admin Leave a Comment

“I am beyond blown away…this is as close to Joe Burrow as I’ve seen coming out in the draft.” – Simms on ranking Stroud No. 1

“He’s as natural at playing the position as you’re going to see. He makes so many great quarterback plays…He’s No. 2 because of his size and his arm is good but it’s not on the same level as C.J. Stroud.” – Simms on Alabama QB Bryce Young

“Why is this guy not getting more buzz? What is there not to like? … If you’re going off film, I don’t know how he’s not in the top quarterback conversation.” – Simms on Tennessee QB Hendon Hooker

“The only guy who we’ve seen somewhat built like this is Cam Newton…His ceiling is probably the highest in the draft. His floor, though, it might be the lowest.” – Simms on Florida QB Anthony Richardson

STAMFORD, Conn. – March 20, 2023 – NBC Sports’ Chris Simms discusses this year’s top QB prospects heading into the 2023 NFL Draft and unveiled his quarterback draft rankings on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast, listing Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud No. 1. In the episode, Simms ranks and breaks down Stroud, Alabama’s Bryce Young, Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker, Florida’s Anthony Richardson, UCLA’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson, and Kentucky’s Will Levis.

“It’s an interesting class,” Simms said of this year’s quarterback prospects. “It’s a good class. I will say that, overall, it is a better class than last year, and I think that there’s a little bit of everything in the class, too, as far as flavors and styles of play… I think there’s less questions overall about these top guys than what we had last year.”

Fareed to Simms on his rankings: “This is all about the tape. This is film rankings. So, you didn’t have a guy No. 1 that you kind of thought from a year ago and now you’re trying to defend that No. 1 ranking and it’s hard to get off of it. You didn’t rank these guys until basically a week ago, so now you’ve looked at the film and this is what your rankings are based off of.”

Simms has had recent success in projecting college quarterbacks – including naming Patrick Mahomes as his most exciting prospect in 2017, listing Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen as his top-two QBs in 2018, and having Justin Herbert as his No. 2 QB in 2020.

In the lead up to April’s NFL Draft, Simms will rank and break down every position group, provide a list of sleeper prospects, and issue a final mock draft.

Simms’ Top Five QB prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft:

Tier 1

1 C.J. Stroud, Ohio State

Tier 2

2. Bryce Young, Alabama

3. Hendon Hooker, Tennessee

Tier 3

4. Anthony Richardson, Florida

Tier 4

T5. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA

T5. Will Levis, Kentucky

The following are highlights from Simms’ QB draft rankings:

No. 1: C.J. Stroud, Ohio State

“I am beyond blown away from what I saw…this is as close to Joe Burrow as I’ve seen coming out in the draft. When you just talk about great decision-making, quickness, I mean that was Joe Burrow…C.J. Stroud’s ability to make high-level throws and just drop the ball in the receiver’s pockets, hit them in the chest, wherever, is off-the-charts good…He’s a pure pocket passing quarterback, but that’s not to say he can’t move and be mobile too…When you really break him down, his incompletions are off-the-charts good …Decision-making, top-notch. The ability to make power, game-changing type throws, top-notch. And then go on to accuracy with the short game, it’s all off the charts. But what separates him is the amount of 15- to 30-yard throws that are on the money that change field position or the game on a consistent basis. Like I said, Joe Burrow is the only guy I can remember where I just kept going, ‘Whoa, another strike. Whoa, another strike.’ … This is not one where I’m going out on a limb and I’m splitting hairs. For (me), definite No. 1 pick.”

No. 2: Bryce Young, Alabama

“The natural, that’s what he is. He’s as natural at playing the position as you’re going to see. He makes so many great quarterback plays. Just like C.J. Stroud, the brain is on another level. The ability to read defenses, see the field, throw the appropriate throw…For a guy that’s a college quarterback, he’s as slick as you’re going to see. What I mean by that, you might not see a ton of wow, oh my gosh throws from Bryce Young, but you see a lot of wow, oh my gosh releases and stuff like that…His ability to throw slants and screens, he can be like (Patrick) Mahomes where he can just flick it out or Aaron Rodgers where you’re just like, ‘Woah, was that out quick.’ The ability to move in the pocket and buy time, bounce around, make people miss, and then have this incredible patience…There’s really so many good things to talk about. He’s a very good athlete, he’s a great decision-maker, he’s aggressive – but not as aggressive as C.J. Stroud – and he can make some wow, highlight-type plays. But he’s No. 2 because of his size and his arm is good but it’s not on the same level as C.J. Stroud.”

No. 3: Hendon Hooker, Tennessee

“Why is this guy not getting more buzz? What is there not to like? … All I know is I saw a really good-looking, on the money, pocket passing quarterback who makes great decisions, and like C.J. Stroud, is way more athletic than people are giving him credit for. And where he might be even better than C.J. Stroud, and definitely better than Bryce Young, is his ability to see over the line and throw over the line…Totally unaffected by the pass rush. That’s where I give him tons of credit. Decision-making, that’s another one where I go it’s really off-the-charts good. The amount of NFL, high-level throws. I just mean in the pocket, 12-yard out route. In the pocket, trash around you, 15-yard in-cut…he does all of that. That’s where I loved Hendon Hooker. His motion is not my favorite. He’s a natural thrower of the football, but his motion is a little too vertical…There’s the ACL and the age thing, that’s the concern with Hendon Hooker. If you’re going off film, I don’t know how he’s not in the top quarterback conversation.”

No. 4. Anthony Richardson, Florida

“He’s Micah Parsons playing quarterback. He’s a beast of beasts when it comes to the quarterback position. The only guy who we’ve seen somewhat built like this is Cam Newton…He’s one of one in that department. This is a quarterback who’s a great athlete who’s still just learning how to play quarterback. He’s less raw than Malik Willis last year. This guy’s arm is off-the-charts good. Is there a little boom or bust here? Of course. His ceiling is probably the highest in the draft. His floor, though, it might be the lowest…You’re not going to want to rely on him like you would Hendon Hooker or Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud…He needs to be taught a few things in how to use his body the right way in throwing the football… The quarterback-designed run game is going to be a real thing with him…From what I’ve seen, he’s a natural thrower.”

No. 5. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, UCLA

“What’s not to like about DTR? He’s taller than Bryce Young, he’s faster than Bryce Young, and I think his arm might be stronger than Bryce Young. He plays the position of quarterback right up there with the top guys. He can do everything. He has a little bit of a long wind-up. Maybe he doesn’t see the field as well as C.J. Stroud or Bryce Young. He plays smaller than 6’2”. But after that, I don’t know what else to say. I would argue that going through reads and reading the field, other than Stroud and Young, he’s the next best one in the group…His mechanics are great, his feet are great…This kid’s got starting NFL quarterback traits. I don’t understand why the guy isn’t getting more hype.”

No. 5. Will Levis, Kentucky

“He’s got a little bit of the boom or bust factor here. His size and toughness are off the charts. He is a good athlete. You take his 10 best throws, they’re up there with anybody. He can throw in lasers like C.J. Stroud or Richardson. The problem is, it’s too few and far between. His decision-making is towards the bottom of the list, too…He’s too flicky, the motion is a little all over the place…The ability to play and get it done is not as good as those top guys in that department. His potential is greater than (Dorian Thompson-Robinson’s)…His ceiling is high…Would I be shocked if he’s a starting NFL quarterback in three years? I would not be…The power isn’t the problem, but he can be a little all over the place with his location of the ball. He feels a little ‘all potential’-based.”

-NBC SPORTS-

JOSH ALLEN, PATRICK MAHOMES, JUSTIN HERBERT & JOE BURROW RANKED 1-4 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

June 15, 2022 By admin

“No one is asked to do more for their team on a weekly basis than him. He’s the most physically gifted quarterback in the game.” – Simms on Josh Allen at No. 1

“Already a first-ballot Hall of Famer. But him in the pocket this year was not good for his standards. He was too aggressive with decisions down the field.”– Simms on Patrick Mahomes at No. 2

“The decision-making is off the charts. The ability to control the ball over the middle of the field and throw it into tight windows might be the best in football.” – Simms on Justin Herbert at No. 3

“The ability to throw with pressure on him…is through the roof. His ability to move in the pocket is arguably the best in the whole league.”– Simms on Joe Burrow at No. 4

STAMFORD, Conn. – June 15, 2022 – All-Pro quarterback Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, Super Bowl LIV MVP and 2018 NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, 2020 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers, and Joe Burrow, fresh off leading the Cincinnati Bengals to the franchise’s first Super Bowl in more than three decades, highlight quarterbacks ranked 1-4 in the final installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms concludes his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 1-4.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 1-40:

1.	*Josh Allen*, Buffalo	21.	Daniel Jones, New York Giants
2.	*Patrick Mahomes*, Kansas City	22.	Zach Wilson, New York Jets
3.	*Justin Herbert*, Los Angeles Chargers	23.	Justin Fields, Chicago
4.	*Joe Burrow*, Cincinnati	24.	Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville
5.	Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay	25.	Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia
6.	Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams	26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans
7.	Russell Wilson, Denver	27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh
8.	Tom Brady, Tampa Bay	28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta
9.	Dak Prescott, Dallas	29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
10.	Lamar Jackson, Baltimore	30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
11.	Derek Carr, Las Vegas	31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
12.	Kyler Murray, Arizona	32	Sam Darnold, Carolina
13.	Deshaun Watson, Cleveland	33.	Geno Smith, Seattle
14.	Matt Ryan, Indianapolis	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
15.	Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
16.	Kirk Cousins, Minnesota	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
17.	Baker Mayfield, Cleveland	37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
18.	Mac Jones, New England	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
19.	Carson Wentz, Washington	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
20.	Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle

Simms, a third-round pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2003 NFL Draft who played eight NFL seasons, will also offer in-depth player breakdowns and rankings explanations throughout each week on Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

Simms has had recent success in projecting quarterbacks – including those coming out of college by naming Patrick Mahomes as his most exciting prospect in 2017, listing Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen as his top-two QBs in 2018, and having Justin Herbert as his No. 2 QB in 2020.

With the rankings now concluded, Simms will release an #AskMeAnything episode on Thursday, June 16, on the next installment of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 4: Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals

“The guy can just play. Period. The ability to throw with pressure on him…is through the roof. His ability to move in the pocket is arguably the best in the whole league. He has great leadership and influence on his football team because of the man he is. He assessed after Year 1 that the elements in the AFC North were going to be an issue, and that he had to throw the ball with more power…and he improved in that area. He grew, he got smarter, and the ‘Wow’ plays went way up and were game-changers for the Bengals.”

No. 3: Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers

“Probably the best pure thrower of the football in the NFL. That’s where he separates himself. He is the ultimate ‘size is a skill’ guy. The decision-making is off the charts. The ability to control the ball over the middle of the field and throw it into tight windows might be the best in football. His anticipation could probably be a little better. But he’s a phenomenal football player and he’s going on an upward trajectory. I think he’s a little more understated [than Joe Burrow]. But at the very least, the Chargers walk on the field and go, ‘We got Justin Herbert. We can win today.’”

No. 2: Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs

“Already a first-ballot Hall of Famer. He’s the coolest quarterback in the NFL. Probably the most fun to watch in the NFL. His creativity and the way he plays is unlike any other in the sport. He has great effect and leadership on his team. He’s one of the best scramblers in football. But him in the pocket this year was not good for his standards. He was too aggressive with decisions down the field. That to me is why he’s No. 2. He had a little bit of a down year, he was a little careless with the football at times, and that’s why I gave the edge to Josh Allen.”

No. 1: Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills

“Josh Allen is the best quarterback in the NFL right now. There’s no doubt. No one is asked to do more for their team on a weekly basis than him. He has the strongest arm in football. Other than Lamar Jackson, he is the best running quarterback in football. I don’t even think that’s debatable. He’s the most physically gifted quarterback in the game, too. To me, where he separates from [Patrick] Mahomes right now is he can play within the offense a little bit more consistently. Mahomes is already an all-time great, and I think Josh Allen is starting to go into that area too.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

AARON RODGERS, MATTHEW STAFFORD, RUSSELL WILSON & TOM BRADY RANKED 5-8 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

June 9, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four Next Monday, June 13

“Aaron Rodgers is still an incredibly awesome talent and still one of the best quarterbacks in football…Is his ability to make game-changing plays consistently up to the capabilities of the quarterbacks in front of him? No.” – Simms on Aaron Rodgers at No. 5

“The guy who’s always been a Super Bowl quarterback that finally got a team that matched up with his Super Bowl capabilities.”– Simms on Matthew Stafford at No. 6

“He is the G.O.A.T. I can’t deny that anymore. He makes more throws and changes the games in more positive ways for the Bucs than he ever did the last few years with the Patriots.”– Simms on Tom Brady at No. 8

STAMFORD, Conn. – June 9, 2022 – Reigning back-to-back NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers, Super Bowl LVI champion Matthew Stafford of the Los Angeles Rams, nine-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson of the Denver Broncos, and seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers highlight quarterbacks ranked 5-8 in the latest installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms continues his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 5-8.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 5-40:

5.	*Aaron Rodgers*, Green Bay	23.	Justin Fields, Chicago
6.	*Matthew Stafford*, Los Angeles Rams	24.	Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville
7.	*Russell Wilson*, Denver	25.	Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia
8.	*Tom Brady*, Tampa Bay	26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans
9.	Dak Prescott, Dallas	27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh
10.	Lamar Jackson, Baltimore	28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta
11.	Derek Carr, Las Vegas	29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
12.	Kyler Murray, Arizona	30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
13.	Deshaun Watson, Cleveland	31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
14.	Matt Ryan, Indianapolis	32.	Sam Darnold, Carolina
15.	Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee	33.	Geno Smith, Seattle
16.	Kirk Cousins, Minnesota	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
17.	Baker Mayfield, Cleveland	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
18.	Mac Jones, New England	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
19.	Carson Wentz, Washington	37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
20.	Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
21.	Daniel Jones, New York Giants	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
22.	Zach Wilson, New York Jets	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle

Beginning in May and culminating next Monday, June 13 with his top four quarterbacks in the league, Simms will unveil four selections on each Chris Simms Unbuttoned episode and discuss his rankings on “PFT Live” with Mike Florio.

The rankings will conclude on Monday, June 13 with numbers 1-4 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 8: Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

“He is the G.O.A.T. I can’t deny that anymore. He makes more throws and changes the games in more positive ways for the Bucs than he ever did the last few years with the Patriots. I do think [former Buccaneers head coach] Bruce Arians and [Buccaneers offensive coordinator] Byron Leftwich got him to break out of his shell. His arm is still towards the top of football. His effect on the team is maybe as big as anyone’s in football. His only flaw is pressure around him. When he’s comfortable and in a rhythm early…Brady can make some unbelievable throws. But the issue is when the game starts to get hairy…he might never settle in…and then it starts to make his decisions bad, too.”

No. 7: Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos

“Still one of the best big-play quarterbacks in the NFL. He still has playmaking ability to scramble. Every team thinks they can win when they have Russell Wilson at quarterback. But he can be too conservative. I think [Broncos head coach] Nathaniel Hackett will find more ways to get him easy completions over the middle of the field. [Last season] he lost control of the football more than he had in years past. He’s still awesome, but he looks for the one-on-one play and avoids the schematical play a little too much.”

No. 6: Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams

“The guy who’s always been a Super Bowl quarterback that finally got a team that matched up with his Super Bowl capabilities. One of the greatest arms in the game. If you wonder why Cooper Kupp had a career year, just look at Matthew Stafford. He allowed that offense to do things they had never done before. His side-arm deliveries are up there with [Patrick] Mahomes and Josh Allen. Incredible accuracy on high-level throws. His ability to handle mental and physical pressure is top-notch. He probably throws more no-look passes than anybody in the sport.”

No. 5: Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

“He still has one of the best arms in the game. He manages the game probably as good as anybody in football. Aaron Rodgers is still an incredibly awesome talent and still one of the best quarterbacks in football. To me, there were too many plays and yards left on the field where I would go, ‘You’re too good to not take advantage of that.’ Is his ability to make game-changing plays consistently up to the capabilities of the quarterbacks in front of him? No. I think maybe he needs a little bit more support and isn’t quite the playmaker those guys are.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

DAK PRESCOTT, LAMAR JACKSON, DEREK CARR & KYLER MURRAY RANKED 9-12 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

June 7, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four next Monday, June 13; In-Depth Breakdowns for Each Ranking Weekly on Chris Simms Unbuttoned Podcast

“This is still the most electrifying quarterback in the NFL.”– Simms on Lamar Jackson at No. 10

“You can win a Super Bowl with this guy.”– Simms on Derek Carr at No. 11

STAMFORD, Conn. – June 7, 2022 – Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, 2019 NFL MVP Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens, three-time Pro Bowler Derek Carr of the Las Vegas Raiders, and 2019 No. 1 overall pick Kyler Murray of the Arizona Cardinals highlight the latest installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms continues his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 9-12.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 9-40:

9.	*Dak Prescott*, Dallas	25.	Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia
10.	*Lamar Jackson*, Baltimore	26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans
11.	*Derek Carr*, Las Vegas	27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh
12.	*Kyler Murray*, Arizona	28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta
13.	Deshaun Watson, Cleveland	29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
14.	Matt Ryan, Indianapolis	30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
15.	Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee	31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
16.	Kirk Cousins, Minnesota	32.	Sam Darnold, Carolina
17.	Baker Mayfield, Cleveland	33.	Geno Smith, Seattle
18.	Mac Jones, New England	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
19.	Carson Wentz, Washington	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
20.	Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
21.	Daniel Jones, New York Giants	37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
22.	Zach Wilson, New York Jets	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
23.	Justin Fields, Chicago	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
24.	Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle

The rankings will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, June 8 with numbers 5-8 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 12: Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals

“This is still one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the NFL. He runs like an elite slot receiver. He can make all the throws. He’s not good in the pocket… [When you] make him make plays in the pocket, it’s still a question mark. There’s going to come a three or four-game stretch where [the Cardinals] are going to play some really good defenses, like the Rams or 49ers, and they’re going to go… ‘We’re not going to let you run around.’ That still needs work. Leadership is another area where I’d like to see him take another jump in. He has to find a way…to have a little bit more of an effect on the football team.”

No. 11: Derek Carr, Las Vegas Raiders

“The ultimate field general. What is the negative about Derek Carr? He’s done more at the line of scrimmage than any other quarterback in football the last two years. He’s got size, he’s mobile, and he has a very good arm. You can win a Super Bowl with this guy. I have a lot of respect for the adjustments he’s made in his career, not only personality-wise…but some physical adjustments that have made him better. Davante Adams came [to the Raiders] for one reason: Derek Carr.”

No. 10: Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens

“This is still the most electrifying quarterback in the NFL. The physical ability is off-the-charts good. He has an incredible arm. The sidearm throws – he’s up there with the best in football. He’s like [Aaron] Rodgers a few years ago or [Josh] Allen or [Patrick] Mahomes now. [Last season] he didn’t see the field or make decisions as well as he did in years past. He was trying to make big plays just a little too much. The leadership on the team – he’s special. The Ravens think they can win every game they walk on the field…they go, ‘He’ll win it for us.’”

No. 9: Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys

“Physical, mental toughness – to me, Dak Prescott is towards the top of football in those departments. His mobility is a real thing. [He is] is up there in the discussion as far as being one of the best ‘I’m under pressure and the pocket is collapsing’ quarterbacks in all of football. He’s unaffected by it. That, to me, is where he is special. Franchise quarterback, difference maker, beautiful deep ball thrower. But I will say he did not have his best year throwing…out of these quarterbacks we’ve talked about today, [his arm strength] is at the bottom. I would say Derek Carr’s arm is stronger than Dak Prescott’s. But he does a lot of good things on the football field.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

DESHAUN WATSON, MATT RYAN, RYAN TANNEHILL & KIRK COUSINS RANKED 13-16 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

June 2, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four on Monday, June 13; In-Depth Breakdowns for Each Ranking Weekly on Chris Simms Unbuttoned Podcast

“I expect the Colts and Matt Ryan to be a major player in the talented AFC.”– Simms on Ryan at No. 14

“The guy is better than we give him credit for. He can still be a dynamic player.”– Simms on Tannehill at No. 15

STAMFORD, Conn. – June 2, 2022 – Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson, 2016 NFL MVP Matt Ryan of the Indianapolis Colts, 2019 NFL Comeback Player of the Year Ryan Tannehill of the Tennessee Titans, and three-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings highlight the latest installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms continues his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 13-16.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 13-40:

13.	*Deshaun Watson*, Cleveland	28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta
14.	*Matt Ryan*, Indianapolis	29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
15.	*Ryan Tannehill*, Tennessee	30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
16.	*Kirk Cousins*, Minnesota	31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
17.	Baker Mayfield, Cleveland	32	Sam Darnold, Carolina
18.	Mac Jones, New England	33.	Geno Smith, Seattle
19.	Carson Wentz, Washington	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
20.	Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
21.	Daniel Jones, New York Giants	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
22.	Zach Wilson, New York Jets	37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
23.	Justin Fields, Chicago	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
24.	Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
25.	Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle
26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans
27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh

Beginning in May and culminating Monday, June 13 with his top four quarterbacks in the league, Simms will unveil four selections on each Chris Simms Unbuttoned episode and discuss his rankings on “PFT Live” with Mike Florio.

The rankings will continue Monday, June 6 with numbers 9-12 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 16: Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings

“The ultimate system quarterback. If the system is really good and creative, he will take advantage of every bit of it. His ability to read and react is up there with the top guys in football. He’s very accurate. [Vikings head coach Kevin] O’Connell is going to bring some creative ideas that Kirk Cousins didn’t have at his disposal the last two years. Kirk Cousins is not going to make plays to get the team over the hump if they’re struggling. He has a good arm, but it’s the same throw every time. Because of that, he can’t make some of those special throws.”

No. 15: Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee Titans

“The guy is better than we give him credit for. Does he need a system like Kirk Cousins? Yes, but he can bring something to the system, too. He throws on the move well and can run. [Last season] he didn’t manage games quite the same way he had in years past. He tried to force some plays. He’s not in a quarterback-friendly offense…but he can still be a dynamic player. I expect [him] to have a better year than he did last year, and I think [head coach] Mike Vrabel and company are on the right track.”

No. 14: Matt Ryan, Indianapolis Colts

“You don’t realize how good he is until you turn on the film. The numbers aren’t going to tell you the whole story. His decision-making and smarts [are] off-the-charts good. His movement in the pocket is at the top of the league. The accuracy is off the charts. He’s become a leader. He’s going to give [head coach] Frank Reich more confidence. He’s tough as hell. I expect the Colts and Matt Ryan to be a major player in the talented AFC.”

No. 13: Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns

“I don’t know what to make of him now. I don’t think that he’s going to be playing football this year. He will be rusty no matter what. Plus [he’s] going to be learning a new system. It’s been a long time since he’s played football.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

BAKER MAYFIELD, MAC JONES, CARSON WENTZ & JIMMY GAROPPOLO RANKED 17-20 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

June 1, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four on Monday, June 13; In-Depth Breakdowns for Each Ranking Weekly on Chris Simms Unbuttoned Podcast

“Maybe the best rookie decision-maker I’ve ever seen.”– Simms on Jones at No. 18

“This is his last chance. He will be relegated to a backup if he doesn’t make it happen this year.”– Simms on Wentz at No. 19

STAMFORD, Conn. – June 1, 2022 – Baker Mayfield, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns, 2021 first-round pick Mac Jones of the New England Patriots, Washington Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz, and Jimmy Garoppolo, fresh off an appearance in the NFC Championship Game with the San Francisco 49ers, highlight the latest installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms continues his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 17-20.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 17-40:

17.	*Baker Mayfield*, Cleveland	29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
18.	*Mac Jones*, New England	30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
19.	*Carson Wentz*, Washington	31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
20.	*Jimmy Garoppolo*, San Francisco	32.	Sam Darnold, Carolina
21.	Daniel Jones, New York Giants	33.	Geno Smith, Seattle
22.	Zach Wilson, New York Jets	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
23.	Justin Fields, Chicago	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
24.	Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
25.	Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia	37	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle

The rankings will continue Thursday, June 2 with numbers 13-16 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 20: Jimmy Garoppolo, San Francisco 49ers

“There’s plenty to like about his game. He has a tangible leadership effect on the football team. Very quick release. He’s very good in the pocket. He does not need to have his feet in the proper position to make 10- and 20-yard throws down the field. It’s not a big arm – there are a number of plays and yards left on the field. I think he’s better than [49ers quarterback Trey] Lance right now. But I do think Lance has the chance to surpass Jimmy Garoppolo coming down the home stretch. As far as fitting the 49ers, that’s where I think Trey Lance has an advantage over Jimmy Garoppolo.”

No. 19: Carson Wentz, Washington Commanders

“Wentz can really make some game-changing plays and throws. He’s a better athlete [than Jimmy Garoppolo]. But we’re seeing two years in a row where teams are like, ‘Please leave the locker room. See you on the next team.’ I hear he can be a little tough to coach. He seems to be a little clueless around the circumstances surrounding the team. [He] has top-10 talent. But can you trust him? This is his last chance. He will be relegated to a backup if he doesn’t make it happen this year.”

No. 18: Mac Jones, New England Patriots

“He had as much pressure as we’ve ever seen on a rookie quarterback. Incredible accuracy. He’s a way better athlete than he gets credit for. He made a lot of big-time throws down the field. Maybe the best rookie decision-maker I’ve ever seen. I cannot put Zach Wilson above him yet. I wouldn’t be shocked to see, like Joe Burrow from Year 1 to Year 2, his arm looking a little stronger this year. The Patriots trusted Mac Jones more than the 49ers trusted [Jimmy] Garoppolo or the Colts trusted [Carson] Wentz.”

No. 17: Baker Mayfield, Cleveland Browns

“Baker Mayfield has a game-changing arm. He sees the field pretty well. He’s not a great athlete, but he’s quick in the pocket. But when you talk about his effect as a leader, it’s pretty damn good. His arm is in the top 10 or 12 in football, in terms of strength. He’s better than people give him credit for. All he did was gut it out and play hard. He’s at the point in his career where he can’t just have a year of not playing quarterback.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

ZACH WILSON, TREVOR LAWRENCE & JALEN HURTS HIGHLIGHT NUMBERS 21-25 ON CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 QUARTERBACK COUNTDOWN, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

May 26, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four on Monday, June 13; In-Depth Breakdowns for Each Ranking Weekly on Chris Simms Unbuttoned Podcast

Daniel Jones (No. 21), Zach Wilson (No. 22), Justin Fields (No. 23), Trevor Lawrence (No. 24), and Jalen Hurts (No. 25) Ranked #21-25 in the Simms Top 40 QB Countdown

“Arrow pointing up, big time… His arm is ‘some of the best quarterbacks in the league’-type talent.”– Simms on Wilson at No. 21

“He made me say ‘Wow’ maybe the least out of all the quarterbacks drafted last year.”– Simms on Lawrence at No. 24

STAMFORD, Conn. – May 26, 2022 – The first two overall picks of the 2021 NFL Draft, Zach Wilson (No. 2) of the New York Jets and Trevor Lawrence (No. 1) of the Jacksonville Jaguars, along with third-year signal caller Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, highlight the latest installment of Chris Simms’ countdown of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL.

NBC Sports’ Simms continues his countdown of the best quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live,” unveiling quarterbacks 21-25.

Simms’ quarterbacks ranked 21-40:

21.	*Daniel Jones*, New York Giants	34.	Tyler Huntley, Baltimore
22.	*Zach Wilson*, New York Jets	35.	Davis Mills, Houston
23.	*Justin Fields*, Chicago	36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
24.	*Trevor Lawrence*, Jacksonville	37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
25.	*Jalen Hurts*, Philadelphia	38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
26.	Jameis Winston, New Orleans	39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
27.	Mitchell Trubisky, Pittsburgh	40.	Drew Lock, Seattle
28.	Marcus Mariota, Atlanta
29.	Tua Tagovailoa, Miami
30.	Jared Goff, Detroit
31.	Trey Lance, San Francisco
32.	Sam Darnold, Carolina
33.	Geno Smith, Seattle

The rankings will continue Tuesday, May 31 with numbers 20-17 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s edition of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 25: Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles

“Leadership, personality, effect on the football field – it is real. Decision-making, seeing the field, it’s pretty good. He can extend plays. Throwing the ball is below-average starting NFL quarterback quality. [The Eagles’] style of play and the way they’re built, it fits him. There’s not going to be a lot of excuses for Jalen Hurts with this football team. He’s a good deep ball thrower. He can get outside the pocket and run the ball pretty well. The problem is this: it’s the middle of the field throws that you need and that’s where he’s not as good. [There are] too many plays where he can’t get it out quick enough. I’m not sure some of the problems will be fixed.”

No. 24: Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars

“He’s got all the tools. He’s big, he’s a good athlete, his arm is strong. He wasn’t in the greatest situation with [former Jaguars head coach] Urban Meyer. The throwing is too inconsistent. He made me say, ‘Wow’ maybe the least out of all the quarterbacks drafted last year. I do think he lost his way a little bit [last season]. [New head coach Doug Pederson and quarterbacks coach Mike McCoy] are going to give him more of a plan of attack. They’re going to call plays where the life of Trevor Lawrence is going to be easier. I expect a big jump here.”

No. 23: Justin Fields, Chicago Bears

“There’s a lot of ‘Wow’ with Justin Fields. He’s as athletic as anyone in this sport. He makes some ‘Wow’ throws every game. He puts himself in danger a little too much. Can he still stay on receivers a little too long sometimes? Yes. But as a whole, [his rookie season] was a positive. This is the year you see tremendous growth. I think the ability to play in the pocket and make throws is better than Jalen Hurts.”

No. 22: Zach Wilson, New York Jets

“Arrow pointing up, big time. He has the type of talent to be top 10-ish. The ball flies off his hand sometimes. His arm is some of the best quarterbacks in the league-type talent. He has a tremendously quick release and can throw it with great power from awkward positions. He was managed the least … [The Jets] ran a real NFL offense and asked him to read plays like a veteran quarterback. His ability to get out of the pocket and make plays is real. At times, he has some mechanical issues…but there are some real special talents here.”

No. 21: Daniel Jones, New York Giants

“When his team wasn’t totally overwhelmed, he played pretty good. He’s got a good arm. He’s one of the better running quarterbacks in football. We got to have more emotion … [he’s] too quiet. Pocket presence, it’s not that great … [but if] you give him a little time, he can make some really nice throws. He was behind the worst offensive line for two years in a row…don’t let that affect your thought of Daniel Jones. I think [new head coach] Brian Daboll has a little bit of ‘eye of quarterback’ mechanics where’s he’s going to help him just like Josh Allen.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

KENNY PICKETT, DREW LOCK & TEDDY BRIDGEWATER LEAD OFF CHRIS SIMMS’ TOP 40 NFL QUARTERBACK RANKINGS, NOW ON “CHRIS SIMMS UNBUTTONED” AND “PRO FOOTBALL TALK”

May 16, 2022 By admin

Simms’ Top 40 QB Countdown Culminates with the Top Four on Monday, June 13; In-Depth Breakdowns for Each Ranking Weekly on Chris Simms Unbuttoned Podcast

Tyrod Taylor (No. 36), Gardner Minshew (No. 37), Teddy Bridgewater (No. 38), Rookie Kenny Pickett (No. 39), and Drew Lock (No. 40) Ranked #36-40 in the Simms Top 40 QB Countdown

“I wish there was more big-play ability and a little more aggressiveness, but as far as being ready to play in the NFL, I have no doubt this guy is going to be ready. He’s going to be able to run an offense.” – Simms on Pickett at No. 39

“He has the type of talent to be in the top 18, top 15, but playing the position, he’s not great at it yet…You can’t trust him.” – Simms on Lock at No. 40

STAMFORD, Conn. – May 16, 2022 – Over the course of the next month, NBC Sports’ Chris Simms will unveil his list of the top 40 quarterbacks in the NFL on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast and on “PFT Live.”

Beginning today and culminating Monday, June 13 with his top four quarterbacks in the league, Simms will unveil four selections on each Chris Simms Unbuttoned episode and discuss his rankings on “PFT Live” with Mike Florio.

“It’s not an easy exercise. There’s a lot of good quarterbacks in the NFL,” Simms said. “There’s four categories that I’m big on: Physical talent, that’s the number one thing. Throwing and running, taking both of those into account – that’s part of the game right now in the 2022 NFL. The next big thing would be the mental aspect…Third would be leadership, the effect you have on the football team…and the last one to me would be pocket presence, because there is something to that…Those four things to me are really the way I break it down.”

To kick off the countdown, Simms unveiled his quarterbacks ranked 36-40:

36.	Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
37.	Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia
38.	Teddy Bridgewater, Miami
39.	Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
40.	Drew Lock, Seattle

The rankings will continue Wednesday with numbers and 31-35 on the next episode of Chris Simms Unbuttoned.

The following are highlights from this week’s editions of Chris Simms Unbuttoned:

No. 40: Drew Lock, Seattle Seahawks

Simms: “There’s things to like about his game. There’s real talent to the player. The talent of the player is better than 40. He has the type of talent to be in the top 18, top 15, but playing the position, he’s not great at it yet. To me, the biggest reason he’s at 40 is – for lack of a better way to say it – he’s not in the trust tree. You can’t trust him. You can’t trust him with decision-making, taking care of the football, and that’s the piece we’re still missing with Drew Lock…Consistency is the issue. We’ve seen snippets…but it just never quite gets there. He’s a little bit all over the place when you break him down…He’s a guy who has a higher ceiling than 40 for sure, but right now I can’t put him any higher than that because I don’t really know what to expect out of him when you put him on the field.”

No. 39: Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh Steelers

Simms: “A lot of the things that we talk about with Drew Lock that I don’t trust, with Kenny Pickett I don’t have those same feelings…As far as the mental aspect, it’s as impressive as it gets coming out of college the last few years. Mac Jones and Joe Burrow are the only two guys I can remember in recent history…In the pocket, making decisions, going through reads, putting the ball in the right spot. It’s as good as anybody we’ve seen come out there, and I think that’s why some teams absolutely loved him at the draft. It’s the high-end talent that I question, but he’s still a starting quarterback here. I wish there was more big-play ability and a little more aggressiveness, but as far as being ready to play in the NFL, I have no doubt this guy is going to be ready. He’s going to be able to run an offense – he’s been playing in a pro offense – and he’s very well-schooled at playing within the pocket and making decisions and throws that way. That’s why I like him and that’s why I’m going to put him in front of Drew Lock.”

No. 38: Teddy Bridgewater, Miami Dolphins

Simms: “Teddy Bridgewater is the ultimate backup. That’s what he is. I would never want him starting for my football team, as we saw from the two seasons previous to this. That’s just not what he is. Teddy Bridgewater does a lot of really good things. He’s got good control of the football and accuracy, he is a pretty good decision-maker, his arm is solid, he’s a good athlete. My big thing with Teddy Bridgewater, especially at this point in his career, is we know who he is. He’s not big-time and he’s not the future of any franchise, and my biggest thing with him more than anything is…the 2022 NFL, to me, doesn’t translate to a guy like Teddy Bridgewater, to guys who don’t go and try to win the game. They just go and try not to lose it. It’s hard to win in the NFL when you have a quarterback who just tries not to lose.”

No. 37: Gardner Minshew, Philadelphia Eagles

Simms: “One of the best backup quarterbacks in all of football…Ultimately, a low-end starter in the NFL, really high-end backup. You can depend on him as a backup. He’s a natural at the position, a little bit where the physical skills are not as good as Drew Lock or even Kenny Pickett – maybe his arm may not even be as good as Teddy Bridgewater – but Minshew can really play. Minshew is a very good decision-maker, Minshew is really crafty and good in the pocket, Minshew brings a leadership and a flair to your football team that is undeniable. In fact, it’s one of the rarest backups I’ve ever seen from that aspect and the team gravitates towards it…He’s got great anticipation and great touch and can change the arm angle. He’s a guy that can really play…He’s one of the best backups in football and that’s why I have him ahead of Teddy Bridgewater. I think there’s an element he brings to a team that Bridgewater doesn’t and that’s why I notched him up ahead.”

No. 36: Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants

Simms: “I feel bad for the guy at times because he’s been a little unlucky. One of the reasons he’s a backup and in this spot is you can’t depend on him to stay healthy throughout the year. That would be one thing that’s a little concerning about him…but Tyrod Taylor has some big-time elements of his skillset that are starting quarterback worthy…It’s a really good arm. Him and Drew Lock would have the two best arms of the guys here so far. He can pump it down the field 60-yard, 70-yard post routes. He’s got some strength. We know he’s a good athlete too…But Tyrod Taylor has a little bit of the Teddy Bridgewater in him to a degree that does bother me in the fact that it’s a careful football game at times, it’s not always taking advantage of what’s there to be had…There is some ability to make some high-end, awesome stuff happen, but it’s too few and far between at times.”

To listen to the full player breakdowns on Chris Simms Unbuttoned, click here.

-NBC SPORTS-

CHRIS SIMMS UNVEILS FIRST-ROUND MOCK DRAFT & ANALYSIS AHEAD OF 2022 NFL DRAFT

April 27, 2022 By admin

“[Hutchinson] has the definite capability of being one of the best edge players in football. He’s as quick of an athlete as I’ve ever seen at that size.” – Simms on Michigan edge Aidan Hutchinson

“He’s raw…but he’s a really big-time talent. I like his motion and he makes some ‘wow’ throws.” – Simms on Liberty QB Malik Willis

NBC Sports’ 2022 NFL Draft Coverage Continues This Week on Across NBC Sports Platforms

STAMFORD, Conn. – April 27, 2022 – With the NFL Draft beginning tomorrow, NBC Sports’ Chris Simms has released his first-round mock draft on the Chris Simms Unbuttoned podcast.

Simms, a third-round pick of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2003 NFL Draft who played eight NFL seasons, was joined by NBC Sports’ Ahmed Fareed on Simms Unbuttoned to offer evaluation, insight and analysis on the draft’s top prospects and each team’s needs heading into the draft.

Click here to watch the full episode of the Simms Unbuttoned mock draft episode. In the weeks leading up to the Draft, Simms has provided position-by-position breakdowns of the top prospects. Click here for a full playlist of Simms’ positional rankings.

Throughout the first round of the NFL Draft tomorrow night, follow along on Twitter (@CSimmsQB) and Instagram (@simmsunbuttoned) as Simms reacts and provides live analysis.

Earlier this week, NBC Sports NFL Insider Peter King unveiled his 2022 first-round mock draft, projecting Georgia DL Travon Walker to go No. 1 overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Click here for King’s mock draft. On ProFootballTalk.com, Mike Florio unveiled his mock draft, also with Walker going No. 1 to Jacksonville.

For more NFL coverage, Peacock offers daily programming on the NBC Sports channel for free, including Pro Football Talk at 7 a.m. ET every weekday, Chris Simms Unbuttoned, The Peter King Podcast, The Rich Eisen Show, Brother from Another, and The Dan Patrick Show. To learn more about the NBC Sports on Peacock channel and how to sign up, click here.

The following is Chris Simms’ first round mock draft:

1) Jacksonville: Michigan Edge Aidan Hutchinson	17) LA Chargers: Connecticut DT Travis Jones
2) Detroit: Georgia DL Travon Walker	18) Philadelphia: Washington CB Trent McDuffie
3) Houston: NC State T Ikem Ekwonu	19) New Orleans: Ohio State WR Garrett Wilson
4) NY Jets: Cincinnati CB Sauce Gardner	20) Pittsburgh: Liberty QB Malik Willis
5) NY Giants: Alabama T Evan Neal	21) New England: Northern Iowa T Trevor Penning
6) Carolina: Mississippi St. T Charles Cross	22) Green Bay: Ohio State WR Chris Olave
7) NY Giants: Florida St. Edge Jermaine Johnson	23) Arizona: LSU CB Derek Stingley Jr.
8) Atlanta: Georgia DT Jordan Davis	24) Dallas: Boston College OL Zion Johnson
9) Seattle: Georgia DT Devonte Wyatt	25) Buffalo: Iowa State RB Breece Hall
10) NY Jets: Alabama WR Jameson Williams	26) Tennessee: Texas A&M OL Kenyon Green
11) Washington: Notre Dame S Kyle Hamilton	27) Tampa Bay: Clemson CB Andrew Booth Jr.
12) Minnesota: Oregon Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux	28) Green Bay: Michigan S Daxton Hill
13) Houston: Utah LB Devin Lloyd	29) Kansas City: North Dakota State WR Christian Watson
14) Baltimore: Purdue DE George Karlaftis	30) Kansas City: Minnesota Edge Boye Mafe
15) Philadelphia: USC WR Drake London	31) Cincinnati: Iowa C Tyler Linderbaum
16) New Orleans: Central Michigan T Bernhard Raimann	32) Detroit: Pittsburgh QB Kenny Pickett

On the 2022 NFL Draft Simms: “It’s a weird year. To me, the quarterback issue is real in trying to figure out the draft – especially the top 10 – and I think that’s most of the NFL. I don’t think most of the NFL has much of a feel exactly of where these quarterbacks are going to go. And then you’ve got a few wild card players in the draft too that can disrupt or upset things…specifically Derek Stingley and Kayvon Thibodaux. Those two guys, to me, are kind of the wild cards and could go in the top 10. Most likely won’t, but if they do, man, that’s going to leave some people on the board a little down the line that might make some teams happy.” Simms on the depth of this year’s draft class: “There’s not a lot of superstars in the draft…when I finally got done with all my evaluations, I think I had close to 80 guys that I wrote, ‘(picks) 25-40’ so that to me is where the value is.” Quarterbacks: Simms on Malik Willis to the Steelers at No. 20: “He’s raw…but he’s a really big-time talent. I like his motion and he makes some ‘wow’ throws as easy as anybody you’re going to find. Throws bombs to Chase Claypool – I think that’s the style of play [the Steelers] want to play.” On Kenny Pickett to the Lions at No. 32: “I think it’s going to be an upgrade over what [the Lions currently] got. I do think he’s a guy that could be your starter really quickly, and dependable, and have a long career. The ceiling I don’t see tremendously high.” Wide receivers: On Jameson Williams to the Jets at No. 10: “Jameson Williams is the best receiver in the draft. I don’t think anyone in football really disagrees with that. He’s every bit as good as DeVonta Smith last year, in fact, I might think he’s better as the time went on. [The Jets] aren’t desperate at receiver, but it’s a situation where you go, ‘We just want one more guy and we’re going to be really dangerous with our biggest investment, our quarterback.’” On Drake London to the Eagles at No. 15: “Jalen Hurts is a good big-body-receiver thrower…Drake London is just made for that to me. His ability to run routes and his size are real and they’re elite.” On Garrett Wilson to the Saints at No. 19: “They need a difference maker. [It is] one of the glaring needs on their roster. I certainly think Wilson can open it up for them a little bit.” Running back: On Breece Hall to the Bills at No. 25: “They want a guy who’s a little bit more of a real thing in the pass game. You know he’s smooth and can run routes out of the backfield, and that makes sense for what they want to do there in Buffalo.” Defense On edge Aidan Hutchinson to the Jaguars at No. 1: “I haven’t heard enough tangibles to know it’s Travon Walker for me to change my pick that way. [Hutchinson] has the definite capability of being one of the best edge players in football. He’s as quick of an athlete as I’ve ever seen at that size.” On S Kyle Hamilton to the Commanders at No. 11: “This one to me was one of the easiest picks of the draft. You look at Washington, their roster, what they got there, they don’t have enough numbers at the safety position. There’s a real need. He’s another guy that I just look at and go, ‘As safe as it gets in the NFL Draft.’ There’s no bust factor with this kid at all.” On edge Kayvon Thibodeaux to the Vikings at No. 12: “It makes too much sense here. [You’ve] got to be a little concerned with some of the medical issues he’s had to deal with the last few years…[but] I think [the Vikings] are going to have more of a desperate need to go [with] the pass rusher, the difference maker.” On CB Derek Stingley to the Cardinals at No. 23: “There’s a huge need on their football team at the corner position. They’re a team that seems to be into the Isaiah Simmons, Rondale Moore guys…I feel like they’re the team that will be a little bit like, ‘He’s there. We got to take him.’” -NBC SPORTS-