Malcolm Simmons, the speedster, was the most talked-about member of the “Freeze four” at fall camp, with the exception of five-star recruit Cam Coleman.
Simmons attended the adjacent Benjamin Russell High School in Alexander City, where he was a four-star recruit. Although he wasn’t as well regarded as Perry Thompson or Coleman, coaches and players were drawn to him because of his quickness when he first arrived on campus.
Hugh Freeze stated at a press conference during the fall camp, “We tossed Malcolm a little toss sweep in the first little red zone lockout competition from the 25-yard line and he looked like an absolute jet, and he was just untouched.” “Last year, we didn’t have that kind of weapon.”
Simmons’ experience in track and field accounts for the speed. In high school, he won the state long jump competition three times and the high jump competition twice. He also held the records for the indoor and outdoor long jumps.
The excitement around Simmons appeared justified as he successfully caught Auburn’s opening throw of the year. After catching a 57-yard touchdown throw from Hank Brown later in the game, Simmons’ contribution to the offense has been minimal.
Even though Pro Football Focus gave him the highest offensive player grade of Auburn in the game, he only saw five plays of action in Auburn’s defeat to Cal. Against New Mexico, Simmons played 24 plays and was only ever targeted once.
Regarding Simmons’ use, Freeze admitted that he was talented but added that Simmons still made typical freshman mistakes.
When questioned on Monday about what he needed to see in order to give Simmons more playing time, Freeze replied, “Knowing what to do on every single call that we have in the call book for that week.” “I love this kid, so I’m not beating him up at all, but that has been the biggest struggle.”
Freeze stated that he still wants to figure out how to incorporate Simmons more in spite of the errors.
Freeze stated, “Talent wise, he deserves to be on the field some.” “On the call sheet, there’s another box that just says Malcolm.
Freeze said that Simmons could be able to get opportunities as a punt.
During fall camp, Simmons participated in punt return repetitions, and Freeze brought up Simmons’ name on Monday while discussing possible new punt returners.
He’s perhaps the team’s second-best punter, according to Freeze.
Whether Simmons is given more chances or not, they will come against stronger competition when Auburn takes on Arkansas in its SEC opener on Saturday.