Another NY quarterback named Simms?
9. PHIL SIMMS
Quarterback, 1979-93
A controversial first-round pick out of Morehead State in 1979, Simms used a mix of arm strength and toughness to carve out his place in Giants history. He may not have the stats to make it to the Hall of Fame, but he helped solidify the quarterback position at a time when the Giants emerged into a Super Bowl champion. His epic 22-of-25 performance in Super Bowl XXI earned him the game's MVP honors. Simms finished with 33,462 passing yards and 199 touchdowns, and was inducted into the Giants' newly formed Ring of Honor in August 2010. ? Credit: Newsday / David L. Pokress
The name Simms is familiar to all New York area football fans. And if Matt Simms has his way, he’ll join his father, Phil, as another New York quarterback. The former Tennessee quarterback is attempting to join the Jets as a backup to Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow. That third-string spot is currently held by Greg McElroy, meaning Simms is a longshot to make the team.
“I’m just trying to go each day and learn as much as I can, not focusing so much on the ifs and what ifs of the future,”Simms said. “I’m just trying to learn from two great quarterbacks (Sanchez and Tebow).”
Simms is used to competing. Even now, the Simms household is competitive. Simms’ brother, Chris, played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is now an assistant on the Patriots’ staff.
“It’s really competitive in my house,” Simms said. “With me, my brother and father in the house, the competition hasn’t stopped. Anything as simple as throwing trash in the garbage turns into a competition.”
