The Seahawks made an expected move on Wednesday, re-signing guard Jordan Simmons to the roster.
Simmons was an exclusive rights free agent following the conclusion of the 2019 season, but became unrestricted after Seattle did not extend a tender. That decision, per ESPN’s Brady Henderson, was strategic to lessen Simmons’ 2020 cap hit should he again suffer a season-ending injury.
A Seahawks update as we await word on Jadeveon Clowney: I'm told they'll likely re-sign G Jordan Simmons after non-tendering him. A possible explanation for that is the ERFA tender doesn't allow for a spit salary, which would make sense for him as he spent last year on IR (knee).
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) March 19, 2020
A split salary reduces the player's salary/cap charge if he ends up on IR. Common for young players coming off injuries. Simmons played well in his three starts in 2018, so it's a no-brainer to keep him in the fold for 2020.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) March 19, 2020
As Henderson noted, Simmons played well in limited action in 2018, and with rosters increased to 90 spots for the offseason, his return is logical. If he is able to remain healthy, Simmons can provide depth at right guard, and potentially even push for a starting spot.
In Simmons’ three starts for the Seahawks in 2018, they averaged 218 yards rushing. Simmons missed the entire 2019 with an injury, and injuries are a huge part of the story with the former Trojan. Over the last eight years, he has been able to start just five games at guard due to various lower body injuries.
However, Simmons is currently healthy and now, back in Seattle. If he can remain healthy in 2020, his return could provide good value to the Seahawks.