Transfer Offensive Tackle Jimmy Simmons Becomes First Summer Enrollee to Lose Black Stripe in 2023

After Victor Cutler Jr. shed his black stripe after Ohio State's seventh practice of fall camp, fellow transfer offensive lineman Jimmy Simmons also earned the honor of “officially” becoming a Buckeye Thursday. 

Newest member of the O-Line, welcome to the brotherhood, Jimmy Simmons! pic.twitter.com/KsLwg0z1sa

— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) August 10, 2023

Simmons has made a positive impression on his Ohio State coaches so far in fall camp, with Ryan Day saying Wednesday the San Diego State transfer is one of four players fighting for a starting offensive tackle spot along with Josh Fryar, Tegra Tshabola and Luke Montgomery. He also said Simmons (along with the other three) is taking reps at both right and left tackle. Simmons started 13 games for San Diego State at right tackle last season.

“I mean, we always have to figure what the best five is and then where their best position will be," Day said. "We've had guys that have swung before, you guys know that. And for some guys, it's easier than others. Josh (Fryar) has been able to move back and forth pretty good, which really helps his value. Other guys, it’s a little bit harder. But all four of these guys are pretty athletic, they’re not too right-handed or left-handed. But we do want to get settled here by midweek, end of this week, so guys can settle into their positions. If we don’t make those decisions now, it’s going to be harder to make them down the road.

“I can tell you we’re very excited about Jimmy Simmons. He’s off to a great start.”

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Simmons is the first summer enrollee to have his black stripe removed this year. He’s the fourth of this year’s transfers to lose his black stripe, joining former Ole Miss cornerback Davison Igbinosun, Oregon State quarterback Tristan Gebbia and Cutler, who all enrolled in the spring. Other newcomers who had their black stripes removed during spring practices included true freshmen Carnell Tate, Jelani Thurman and Malik Hartford.