INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana (92.3 The Fan) – As free agency nears, the likelihood of the Browns retaining linebacker Joe Schobert seems to dwindle by the day.
The potential impending loss of Schobert would create yet another hole for executive vice president of football operations and general manager Andrew Berry to fill in free agency and the draft, but he has a very attractive option: Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons.
Fit would not be a problem.
“I think I can play in any scheme just because of my versatility, I can fit in anywhere,” Simmons said Thursday at the NFL Combine. “Depending on what position they need me at, I feel I can play it.”
Schobert, a fourth-round pick in 2016, is about to become an unrestricted free agent next month and there is growing interest in his services. Keeping the 2017 Pro Bowler and 2019 second alternate is a price Berry and the Browns aren’t likely to be willing to pay.
The problem for Berry isn’t whether to take Simmons over a left tackle at 10, it’s that Simmons probably won’t be on the board barring some absurd run on quarterbacks in the top 10.
“Mentally, I feel like there isn’t anything I can’t do,” Simmons said. “I played every position except for a nose or 3 technique. When it comes down to it, I’m going to try with my best ability to do everything I can.”
The Browns are set at many skill positions but both offensive tackle spots and right guard, tight end, safety and linebacker are all on the offseason shopping list.
Covering tight ends has been a nightmare for the Browns for what feels like an eternity, as difficult as it’s been for them to stop the run.
Simmons would be a gift from the football gods.
“If you know who George Kittle and Travis Kelce are, then that explains it all,” Simmons said when asked why he’s the perfect defensive player for any team. “Stopping tight ends and linebackers playing man on running backs is … like the game’s no longer a 250-pound linebacker. It’s more guys that are able to run side to side and are able to cover. It’s just a necessity now with the tight ends and running backs.”
So where does the jack-of-all defensive trades in this year’s draft see himself playing in the NFL?
“I like an interception just as much as I like getting a sack,” Simmons said. “I don’t really think I have a favorite.”
