Josh Simmons

Josh Simmons, Ohio St., 6050, 310, OT, Sr.

Overview

Ohio State's Josh Simmons established himself as one of college football's premier offensive tackles before a devastating knee injury cut short his 2024 campaign. The San Diego native's path to becoming a potential first-round NFL Draft pick began at Madison High School before transferring to Helix, where he emerged as a consensus four-star recruit. After initially committing to San Diego State, Simmons redshirted in 2021 before starting 13 games at right tackle for the Aztecs in 2022. The 6'5", 310-pound tackle transferred to Ohio State in 2023, immediately winning the starting left tackle job and showcasing the athleticism and technical refinement that would eventually catch NFL scouts' attention. His versatility and durability were on full display as he started 26 consecutive games between San Diego State and Ohio State, proving equally effective at both tackle spots. Prior to his season-ending knee injury against Oregon in October 2024, Simmons hadn't allowed a single sack and was gaining momentum as a potential top-25 draft prospect. His development from local San Diego prospect to Big Ten standout mirrors his transformation as a player. Simmons earned Third Team All-Big Ten honors in 2024 despite playing just six games, a testament to his dominance before the injury. The human development and family services major, nicknamed "Jimmy" by his teammates due to an abundance of Joshes in the offensive line room, declared for the 2025 NFL Draft in December.

Scouting Report

Pros

Exceptional lateral mobility allows him to mirror speed rushers and execute backside cutoff blocks with rare fluidity for a man his size. Devastating punch power combined with independent hand usage - consistently lands first meaningful contact while showing variety in strike patterns. Elite foot speed and kickslide technique lets him consistently beat rushers to the spot, rarely getting beat around the corner. Displays outstanding spatial awareness when working combo blocks and picking up stunts, showing natural chemistry with his guard. Explosive first step and closing burst help him eliminate linebackers at the second level - arrives balanced and ready to deliver a blow. Brings serious juice in the screen game, showing rare ability to track down and eliminate targets in space for his size. Natural knee bend and anchor strength allow him to absorb power rushes without giving ground, even against bull rush specialists. Position versatility is a major plus - has started and played well at both tackle spots against quality competition.

Cons

October 2024 knee injury raises significant medical concerns and will require thorough evaluation during the pre-draft process. Shows occasional lapses in hand placement against wide-9 alignments, allowing defenders into his chest plate too frequently. Racked up 25 penalties over past two seasons between SDSU and Ohio State - must clean up technical infractions. Can get overaggressive seeking contact in space, leading to balance issues and whiffed blocks on more elusive defenders. Limited 2024 sample size of just six games means teams didn't see him against the meat of Ohio State's schedule.

Career Honors

• 2024: Honorable mention All-Big Ten Conference

High School

A local product out of nearby Helix High School in La Mesa, California, Simmons previously prepped at Madison High School. He was a consensus four-star recruit by Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN. Rated as the 14th-best guard in the 2021 recruiting class by ESPN and 21st by 247Sports, he was also listed as the 19th-best strongside defensive end by Rivals. ESPN ranked him as the 24th-best recruit in California, with Rivals placing him 25th and 247Sports at 35th. Fellow Helix Highlander Jaiden Brown also signed with the Aztecs in December.

Personal

Joshua Loane Simmons was born on December 26, 2002, in San Diego. He is the son of Ana Maafala. Simmons chose San Diego State over numerous offers from top programs including Georgia, Michigan, Oklahoma, USC, Washington, Penn State, and others. He is currently majoring in business.