2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Colin Simmons, Edge, Texas

Summer is here, and it is everyone’s favorite time of the year, scouting time. Every year, we do Summer Scouting to preview college football for Vikings fans, but also give them an idea of names to follow and watch in the fall as needs pop up for Minnesota. 

Are we going to write about quarterbacks? Offensive tackles? Edge rushers? You know it, but why? Because other NFL teams will draft them, just as they will draft every other position. It all matters whether these players end up on the Vikings, the Bears, or the Steelers. We write these so Vikings fans can be the most informed fans. 

So if you are still with us, enjoy our latest Summer Scouting report as we prepare you for the Fall.

Film

• Kentucky
• Oklahoma

Background Info

• Listed at 6-3/240 lbs.
• 5-Star prospect according to 247 Sports
• All-American in high school 
• All-State in high school
• Three-time All-District honoree in high school
• Under Armour All-American
• Won a state title in basketball
• Created “Clay’s Color Crew nonprofit”, named after his brother, in 2024 to create accessible autism resources for underserved communities
• Second-team All-American in 2025
• First-team All-SEC in 2025
• Shaun Alexander Award winner in 2024
• Freshman All-American in 2024
• SEC All-Freshman Team in 2024

Notable career stats heading into 2026

• 105 Tackles

• 29.5 Tackles for a Loss
• 19 Sacks

Notable numbers from PFF heading into 2026

• Lines up the most at ROLB (47% of snaps)
• 57 QB Hurries
• 2 Passes batted at the line of scrimmage
• 64 Defensive stops
• Pass Rush Win Rate of 33.3%

Strengths

• Insane motor to be an impact on extended plays
• Great awareness to provide coverage and pass-rush ability
• Versatile in how he plays with his finger in the dirt and back as a linebacker
• Sound tackling technique to wrap up and make plays
• Uses his length to win reps

Player Summary

Colin Simmons is on another level as a pass rusher heading into what is likely his final college football season. Simmons uses his length, eyes, and speed to be an instant impact player on every play he is in for. For Texas, he is a reliable pass rusher, but he also provides great coverage and run support. He is a complete edge rusher in a loaded class and projects as a top-five pick for me heading into the fall. 

This article originally appeared on Vikings Wire: 2027 NFL Draft Summer Scouting Report: Colin Simmons, Edge, Texas