EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — The New York Giants have reached an agreement on a one-year deal with linebacker Isaiah Simmons, adding versatility to their defense.

Simmons, 25, joined the Giants last August in a trade with the Arizona Cardinals for a seventh-round pick. In the previous season, he appeared in 17 games, starting four, and recorded 46 tackles, a sack, and an interception returned for a touchdown. Giants’ general manager Joe Schoen praised Simmons as a “valuable addition” following the season.

Heading into his fifth season, Simmons has started a total of 41 games, demonstrating his adaptability across various positions. He has experience playing safety, inside linebacker, nickel cornerback, and has even been utilized as an edge rusher with both the Giants and Cardinals. Despite his versatility, Simmons’ future with the Giants was uncertain, especially after the departure of former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale earlier this year. Martindale, now with the University of Michigan, was known to favor Simmons.

However, the Giants remain confident in Simmons’ abilities under new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen. The defense is expected to feature fewer blitzes and man coverage schemes, unlike Martindale’s strategy, which often capitalized on Simmons’ athleticism.

Simmons, selected eighth overall in the 2020 draft out of Clemson, possesses notable size, speed, and playmaking skills. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 238 pounds, he impressed scouts with a 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.

Despite his athleticism, Simmons has yet to solidify a permanent position in the NFL. While he has transitioned between safety and linebacker roles in Arizona, he primarily played as a linebacker for the Giants.