The 2027 NFL Draft feels like forever away, and we’re all caught up in the start of the NFL season. Regardless, it’s never too early to look ahead to the Draft. This weekly series will take a closer look at some of the prospects the Carolina Panthers could select in the 2027 iteration of the Draft. In this series, we’ll only be looking at prospects the Panthers could seriously consider. This week our profile will focus on Texas Longhorns edge defender Colin Simmons.
Bio
Simmons (6’3”, 240 lbs.) came into
college as one of the best pass rushing prospects in the country. He led his high school to back-to-back state championships, winning Defensive MVP of the game both times. In his freshman year at Texas, Simmons posted nine sacks and 14 tackles for loss in 16 games for the Longhorns, earning him National Freshman of the Year, Freshman All America, and SEC All-Freshman honors. Heading into the following season, Simmons was named to the preseason All-SEC first team and preseason All-American first team. He improved in his sophomore season, notching 12 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss in just 13 games, indeed being named to the All-SEC first team and to the All-American second team. The true junior has started hot for the Longhorns this year as well, already being credited with 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks in three games so far. He is on the watchlist for many awards, including the Lott, Bronko Nagurski, Weurfful, Lombardi, Walter Camp, and Chuck Bednarik trophies.
Strengths/Weaknesses
Simmons is considered the consensus best pass rusher in the 2027 class (assuming he doesn’t return to school). He has an insane first step and converts that elite short area speed into power, bending around tackles with loose hips and ankles. He also has a knack for turnovers, forcing six fumbles and grabbing one interception across his first two college seasons. While not the biggest or strongest, Simmons is able to set a solid edge against the run and has the motor to chase down cutbacks and backside runs.
Simmons’s size is a question mark for some NFL scouts. At just 240 lbs., stronger offensive lineman can push him around when they get their hands on him. He also has a couple discipline and technique issues to address, namely missed tackles and committing penalties.
Projection
Simmons will likely be the top edge defender taken in the 2027 NFL Draft baric anything drastic happening between now and April. His pass rush prowess and playmaking ability definitively outweigh some of the lack of discipline and weight questions. Simmons has the three down ability that modern NFL teams need and will likely be a day one starter. If he continues on his current trajectory, he could easily be a double digit sack player while being an above average edge setter at the next level. His abilities make him scheme versatile as a plug and play edge, so the Panthers should do their due diligence regardless of the defensive scheme and coaching staff.
What do you think, Panthers fans? If Colin Simmons is available when the Panthers select in the 2027 NFL Draft, should they take him? Sound off in the comments!
