Raiders select another Clemson Tiger, John Simpson heads to Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Raiders added another Clemson Tiger today as guard John Simpson drafted 109th, joins Tanner Muse (100th) in the 2020 class. Simpson is now the fifth former Tiger on John Gruden’s team. Last year the Raiders drafted Clelin Ferrell (4th), Trayvon Mullen (40th), and Hunter Renfrow (149th).
As we noted when Tanner Muse was drafted, General Manager Mike Mayock has been a huge fan of Dabo Swinney’s program. The Raiders hope that Simpson will “fortify the line” as they head to their new home in Las Vegas.
NFL.com describes Simpson: "Broad, well-built snowplow of a guard with the traits and power to turn a crease into a full-fledged running lane. Teams looking to add physicality up front will covet Simpson, but keep in mind he was plenty effective with scoop blocks, pulls, second-level climbs and even screen blocking, which shows the big man can move. Tardiness coming out of his stance and issues changing direction in pass protection are concerns that may not be easily fixed and could lead to matchup-based inconsistencies. However, he plays with good technique and has the tools to become an early starter and a good NFL guard.”
According to ClemsonTigers.com:
“Offensive lineman who played both guard positions for the Tigers in 2017 before earning the starting role … helped Clemson post a 29-1 record during his two seasons as a full-time starter … played 2,043 snaps over 50 games (29 starts) in his career … selected as a Preseason All-American for 2019 by Phil Steele (first-team) and Athlon (second-team) prior to earning consensus All-America status that year.”
Dabo Swinney on Simpson: “John Simpson was a captain and a graduate and is as good of an offensive lineman as we’ve had come through Clemson—going on 18 years, my 18th season—as good an offensive lineman as I’ve seen here. He’s ready-made. He’s what everybody’s looking for at the next level. He’s got all the measurables that everybody’s looking for as far as the strength, size, athleticism, flexibility and power. He’s been a great player for us. He’s played against the best of the best. I’m excited about his continued development at the next level.”