Josh Simmons to Visit Colts: A Pre-Draft Prospect With Big-Time Upside
As the NFL Draft inches closer, teams around the league are deep into their pre-draft visits, evaluations, and strategy sessions. One name that's recently popped up on the Indianapolis Colts' radar is none other than Ohio State’s offensive tackle, Josh Simmons. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, Simmons is set to visit the Colts for a pre-draft meeting—a move that raises eyebrows and stirs up some buzz in Indy.
Why does this visit matter? What makes Simmons a standout? And how does he potentially fit into the Colts’ long-term plans? Let’s dig in.
📌 Who is Josh Simmons? Let’s Talk Background
Simmons is a physically gifted offensive lineman, standing at an imposing 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 317 pounds. During the 2023 season, he held down the fort at left tackle for Ohio State and even started off the 2024 campaign before an unfortunate injury derailed things.
But before making waves in Columbus, Simmons first showed off his skills at San Diego State, where he started at right tackle. That versatility—being able to handle both left and right tackle duties—is something NFL teams drool over.
🔥 The Stats Speak Volumes
Even though Simmons’ 2024 season was cut short due to a torn patellar tendon in October, his brief time on the field was nothing short of impressive.
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Only 1 pressure allowed in 158 pass-blocking snaps.
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Ranked tied for 35th among all tackles in PFF's pass-blocking efficiency metric.
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Came in at 67th in run-blocking grade, showing there’s still some room for growth.
Despite his injury, these numbers paint a picture of a player with serious upside, especially in pass protection.
🛠️ What the Scouts Are Saying
NFL.com draft analyst Lance Zierlein offered a detailed scouting report on Simmons, and it's a mix of encouraging potential and realistic critique:
“He’s a consistently fluid mover both inside the box and when asked to play in space. He has the slide quickness to compete against NFL edge speed. While more positional than powerful in run-blocking, Simmons can fit into all schemes. Improved hand placement and latch-in strength can help better control opponents in both the run and pass games. He may still be vulnerable to twists and counters in pass protection, so he might need a year of development before he’s ready to consistently hold down an NFL edge.”
This kind of insight is key. Simmons isn’t a plug-and-play day-one superstar just yet—but he’s got the tools, and more importantly, he knows how to use them.
🧠 Why the Colts Are Bringing Him In
So why are the Colts, in particular, interested?
Every NFL team is allowed up to 30 pre-draft visits, and these aren’t just meet-and-greets. Teams use this time to do:
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In-depth medical evaluations
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Film breakdowns with the coaching staff
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Personality assessments and character evaluations
For Simmons, this visit is a chance to show the Colts that he’s bouncing back strong from his knee injury—and that he has the football IQ and temperament to grow into a key piece of their offensive line.
🔍 Where He Fits in Indianapolis
The Colts aren’t exactly desperate for a starting tackle right this second, but there are a few key pieces in flux:
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Matt Goncalves could be moving to right guard, thinning out tackle depth.
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Braden Smith, the current starting right tackle, is entering the final year of his deal.
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Blake Freeland would be the next man up, but adding competition never hurts.
In the short term, Simmons could push for a depth role while learning the ropes. Long-term? He could be the heir to Smith’s spot on the right side of the line. That’s a huge value play, especially if the Colts can get him with one of their later picks.
⚡️ High Ceiling, Low Risk?
Let’s be real—injuries are always a concern. A torn patellar tendon is no joke. But if Simmons checks out medically and continues progressing, the upside is hard to ignore.
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Versatility: Can play both tackle spots
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Athleticism: Moves fluidly for a man his size
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Technique: Already refined in pass protection
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Growth potential: Especially in run-blocking and handling stunts
In today’s NFL, offensive line depth is gold. Simmons offers starter traits, swing tackle flexibility, and developmental upside—without necessarily burning a high draft pick.
🎯 PFF Ranks and Draft Stock
Where does Simmons sit on draft boards?
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3rd-ranked offensive tackle on PFF’s board
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17th overall prospect
That’s elite company. While the injury may cause him to slide a bit on draft night, he’s still widely seen as a Day 1 or Day 2 selection, depending on team needs and medical evaluations.
🧩 Final Thoughts: A Smart Bet for Indy?
If you’re the Colts, this is the kind of prospect you want to take a chance on. Simmons gives you flexibility, youth, and a high-upside option to groom behind your veteran linemen. His visit isn’t just about shaking hands and smiling for the cameras—it’s about seeing if this kid is ready to take the next step, physically and mentally.
With offensive tackle being one of the most critical positions in the game—protecting your quarterback and anchoring your run game—investing in a talent like Simmons makes a lot of sense.
✅ Key Takeaways: Why Josh Simmons is One to Watch
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Big frame and elite footwork
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Experience at both left and right tackle
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Limited pressure allowed in 2023
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Still developing, but with a huge ceiling
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Could be a long-term solution at right tackle for Indy
The NFL Draft is all about projecting talent, managing risk, and finding guys who fit your system. Josh Simmons checks a lot of those boxes. If the Colts walk away from this visit impressed, don’t be shocked if his name gets called earlier than some expect on draft night.
Stay tuned—this pre-draft visit might just be the beginning of something big in Indianapolis.
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