The Green Bay Packers have been actively reshaping their roster in preparation for the 2025 season, using both free agency and the NFL Draft to bring in fresh talent. One of their most recent moves came shortly after the draft, as the team dipped back into free agency to sign versatile linebacker/safety Isaiah Simmons.
Simmons, a former first-round pick known for his athleticism and positional flexibility, adds a dynamic element to the Packers’ defense. With experience at both linebacker and safety, he could be a valuable chess piece in a scheme that emphasizes hybrid defenders and matchup versatility.
The Green Bay Packers continued shaping their 2025 roster by signing hybrid linebacker/safety Isaiah Simmons shortly after the draft, adding to a busy offseason that leaned heavily on both free agency and the draft. Simmons inked a one-year deal worth $1.337 million, but with just $167,500 guaranteed, his place on the final roster is far from a lock.
As noted by Andy Herman of the Pack-A-Day podcast, Simmons’ contract closely resembles that of wide receiver Mecole Hardman, who signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with only $150,000 guaranteed in March. The structure suggests Simmons will have to prove himself in training camp, earning his role through performance rather than pedigree.
Packers Give Isaiah Simmons ‘Prove It’ Deal
Isaiah Simmons, once a top-10 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals, brings an intriguing mix of athleticism and production to the Packers. Over 50 career games split between the Cardinals and the New York Giants, Simmons has compiled a solid stat line: 329 total tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 13 quarterback hits, 8.5 sacks, and five interceptions.
That level of versatility—playing multiple roles across the defense—was what made him such a highly touted prospect out of Clemson. While his time in Arizona and New York didn’t always reflect his draft billing, Simmons has shown flashes of impact and remains a unique hybrid talent. Now in Green Bay, he’ll need to capitalize on this opportunity in training camp, especially given the low-guarantee nature of his deal.
Despite his elite athletic traits, Isaiah Simmons has yet to lock down a consistent role in the NFL—a reality that led to brief stints with both the Cardinals and Giants. Now with the Packers, he’s getting what might be one of his final chances to carve out a defined spot on a roster. Green Bay is betting on his upside, but they’re also making it clear: he’ll have to earn it.
Head coach Matt LaFleur noted at rookie minicamp that newly signed safety Xavier McKinney is already supportive of the move, giving it “two thumbs up.” That kind of early endorsement from a defensive leader is encouraging, but ultimately, Simmons’ future in Green Bay will hinge on how he performs this summer.
Given the minimal guarantees in his contract, the Packers can cut ties with little consequence if he doesn’t impress. It’s now up to Simmons to finally turn potential into production—and prove he belongs on the 53-man roster.
Exactly — the Packers structured Isaiah Simmons’ contract with minimal guarantees for a reason: they want to see him earn his place. It’s a low-risk, high-reward move for Green Bay, and it sends a clear message to Simmons that nothing is promised, despite his pedigree.
For a player once drafted eighth overall, this kind of deal should serve as a wake-up call — a final chance to prove he can translate raw athleticism into consistent production. If that doesn’t light a fire under him, nothing will.
