Crimson Tide fans were awakened this morning with the rather surprising news that wide receiver T.J. Simmons was not only transferring but that he already had a destination.
Next Chapter #WVU20 @WestVirginiaU pic.twitter.com/icffpTEGFi
— Tj Simmons (@a_scouts_dream) June 25, 2017
As a recruit out of Pinson, AL (Clay-Chalkville), Simmons garnered only three stars but caught enough coaching staff eyes to see action in 12 games as a true freshman. An early enrollee at Alabama, he found a role on special teams before working his way into a deep wideout rotation.
The rising sophomore had a nice A-Day Game this past April, leading all receivers with six grabs. He tallied 82 yards and a touchdown.
With the additions of four top 12 receivers to the Alabama 2017 class (Jerry Jeudy, Devonta Smith, Henry Ruggs, and Tyrell Shavers), it was widely believed the Crimson Tide would have a few pass catchers transfer out. However, Simmons’ decision catches many observers off guard.
Since he already has a landing spot lined up, it would seem logical that Simmons was previously granted a release from his scholarship. Though this news may shock fans, it surely did not surprise Nick Saban and staff.
We wish him the best at West Virginia.