The future stars of Ohio State football officially begin their college careers, as standouts from all over the country put pens to their National Letters of Intent.
Ohio State's summertime commitment surge continued on June 29 when four-star New Jersey linebacker Cody Simon made his intentions known. His decision ultimately came down to the Buckeyes, Nittany Lions, and Cornhuskers.
Buckeye Nation is going to love watching you play, @Cody_Simon30. Welcome#GoBucks #XXclusive pic.twitter.com/mN6mQADkoW
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) December 18, 2019
The Simon File
- Class: 2020
- Size: 6-foot-1, 218 pounds
- Pos: OLB
- School: St. Peter's Prep (Jersey City, New Jersey)
- Composite Rating: ★★★★
- Composite Rank: 9 (OLB)
Ohio State extended an offer to Jersey's No. 3 prospect last May, and from that point forward it was Al Washington and Jeff Hafley that helped to secure the talented linebacker.
Though his brother Shayne is currently a sophomore at Notre Dame, the Irish were never really a factor for the younger of the Simon siblings. Miami, Kentucky, and Virginia Tech were three other programs that were involved.
Simon made an official visit to Columbus on June 20, and it was that trip that helped Ryan Day and his staff ultimately seal the deal for the 6-foot-1, 218-pounder. He used this visit to speak with some current players about their experiences under the new Ohio State staff.
After much deliberation with my family and coaches, I have made the decision to attend THE Ohio State UniversityI am grateful to now be able to focus on my team and our success for the 2019 season. pic.twitter.com/e2CTj4U0VW
— Cody Simon (@Cody_Simon30) June 29, 2019
Rated as the country's No. 9 outside linebacker, Simon should ultimately put on the necessary size to man just about any of the backer positions. He recorded a 4.53 forty last summer, which is an impressive showing for a linebacker. Recognized as one of the top athletes at The Opening last summer, he may get his start at the inside backer spot.
Less than a month ago, St. Peter's Prep topped the powerhouse Don Bosco program to capture the state title. The Bosco team featured four-star back Jalen Berger — a player the Buckeyes could be seeing a lot of in the coming years if he signs with Rutgers or Wisconsin as expected. Simon helped lead the Marauders on defense and with a 70-yard punt return touchdown.
Al Washington and Greg Mattison helped get Ohio State's linebackers back on track this year after struggling immensely in 2018. Malik Harrison is in his final year, but Tuf Borland, Pete Werner, and Baron Browning all return next season and should lead the rotation. Dallas Gant, Teradja Mitchell, and K'Vaughan Pope will also see plenty of action.
Cody Simon's arrival will add even more depth to Washington's unit, but it's tough to imagine him seeing the field too often early on in his career. A role on special teams may be in the cards next year followed by more playing time at linebacker in 2021. He joins fellow 2020 prospects Mitchell Melton and Kourt Williams at the position.
He's been selected to play in the All-American Bowl which is scheduled for Jan. 4. Simon will enroll at Ohio State this summer.
