Oregon has a new defensive lineman. Jerome Simmons committed to the Ducks. He joins via the NCAA transfer portal. This is significant news for Oregon football. Simmons brings experience and size to the defensive front. He spent the 2025 season at ULM. Before that, he was with South Carolina. He played junior college football too. His journey adds depth to the Ducks’ roster.
Simmons’ Collegiate Path
Jerome Simmons took an interesting route. He started at Highland Community College. There, he earned JUCO All-Conference honors. This performance drew attention from FBS programs. He then committed to South Carolina. However, he redshirted in 2024. Simmons then transferred to Louisiana-Monroe (ULM). He played for the Warhawks in 2025. He appeared in eight games. He recorded 10 tackles for ULM. He also managed one pass breakup. Simmons now enters the transfer portal again. He has one year of eligibility remaining.
Physicality and Potential
Simmons stands at 6-foot-4. He weighs around 330-340 pounds. This size makes him a formidable presence. He is expected to help stop the run. He can also create disruption on the interior defensive line. His JUCO stats show he can generate pressure. He recorded sacks and tackles for loss there. Oregon seeks players who can eat up space. Simmons fits this profile perfectly. His physicality is a key asset. He provides a big body for the defensive tackles. He can occupy blockers. This frees up other defenders. His skills align with defensive needs.
Oregon’s Defensive Line Situation
The Oregon Ducks faced significant roster turnover. Many defensive linemen entered the transfer portal. Key players like Xadavien Sims and Tionne Gray departed. This created a depth issue. The starting defensive line is strong. Players like A’Mauri Washington and Bear Alexander are returning. However, the second-string and depth were depleted. Simmons’ commitment addresses this need directly. He is Oregon’s first defensive line addition via the portal. This move helps replenish critical depth. It adds competition to the unit. This is vital news for the team’s sports strategy.
Recruitment Interest
Several programs sought Simmons’ commitment. NC State offered him a scholarship. The Florida Gators also showed interest. He visited both schools. Simmons ultimately chose Oregon. The Ducks have been active in the transfer market. They aim to reload after losing players. This commitment shows their focus. They are targeting experienced talent. Simmons was a four-star JUCO recruit. This suggests high potential. His decision brings him to the Big Ten. It’s a significant development in college sports news.
Looking Ahead
Jerome Simmons arrives at Oregon. He brings size and a proven JUCO background. His path includes stops at South Carolina and ULM. He offers one year of immediate impact. The Ducks needed defensive line help. Simmons provides that much-needed reinforcement. He joins a strong returning core. His addition aims to solidify the defensive front. This move is trending among college football analysts. It strengthens Oregon’s roster for the upcoming season. The sports world watches these portal moves closely. This signing is an important piece of Oregon’s roster building.
