Jeffery Simons of the Tennessee Titans is one of the best young defensive tackles in the NFL, and he was recently rewarded for the hard work he has put in.
Last week, he received a four-year contract from them that will be worth $94 million, and he got emotional while talking about what it means to him to stay with the Titans.
Here’s a look at how much it means to Jeffery Simmons. #Titans pic.twitter.com/U04Ecww0YZ
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) April 12, 2023
Simmons talked about how he grew up disadvantaged in the South and how now, with his new contract, he can create generational wealth for his family.
After a standout career in college with the Mississippi State University Bulldogs, he was the 19th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft by Tennessee.
Over the last two seasons, he has emerged as a force, making the Pro Bowl and All-Pro second-team both times.
Last season, Simmons put up 7.5 sacks, seven passes defended, 14 quarterback hits, and nine tackles for loss in 15 contests.
He has certainly dealt with and overcome adversity, including a torn ACL right before the 2019 draft, assault allegations when he was a senior in high school and being accused of spitting at Baltimore Ravens guard Marshal Yanda during the Divisional round of the 2019 NFL playoffs.
With a 7-10 record, the Titans missed the playoffs last season, but their run defense, which was one of the best in the league with Simmons’ help, is something they can use as a foundational piece in order to return to the postseason, along with the talents of star running back Derrick Henry, who returned to form in 2022 after a Jones fracture in 2021.
