Packers Blockbuster Trade Proposal Adds Star Cornerback to Replace Jaire Alexander 7 Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley talks with fans before their game against the Houston Texans Sunday, October 20, 2024 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

Isaiah Simmons Seemed to Expect Packers Would Cut Him

Originally posted on WI Sports Heroics | By Matt Lombardo | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 1:44 PM ET

The Packers released veteran linebacker Isaiah Simmons during Green Bay’s final roster cuts, an outcome that the former top-10 draft pick sounded resigned to in recent days.

“I don’t think it’s been up to my standard,” Simmons said last week, per Sports Illustrated. “I just feel like I’ve been thinking too much instead of just being myself. Trying to play too perfect, as opposed to just playing.”

Simmons, 27, saw extended playing time during the preseason which was likely an early indication that his days in a Packers uniform were numbered.

Isaiah Simmons Disappointed in Performance with Packers

The former New York Giant and Arizona Cardinal finished the exhibition slate with 16 total tackles.

However, Simmons wasn’t thrilled by what he put on film.

“I’ve always been my own biggest critic, and I think that’s just kind of played a major part into it,” he added. “Being a little too hard on myself and not understanding that in football, mistakes are going to happen. Nobody’s going to play a perfect game. And just understanding mistakes are going to happen as opposed to playing to not make mistakes.” Through his first five seasons, Simmons has posted 329 total tackles with 8.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, one interception, and three fumble recoveries. Simmons’ play has declined over the past two seasons, and while it remains to be seen where he will play his next snap, it won’t be in Green Bay.

Packers News: New Recruit Isaiah Simmons Names 1 Thing He Appreciates About Jeff Hafley Compared to Other Coaches Who 'Wrongly' Used Him 2 Jul 24, 2024; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;New York Giants safety Isaiah Simmons (19) talks with media during training camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

This article first appeared on WI Sports Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: